How to Pick Out Leaf Springs for a Trailer

Question:

2 questions 1/ I replaced in an emergency basis the original open or C slip spring with a double eye spring, which bolted straight in after cutting the spacers mentioned below. Will the double eye spring with the same weight capacity work as well as the original? Or should I change back to the C Slip spring configuation 2/ The original mounting had the 9/16 bolt but also had a metal sleeve and a nylon bushing with spacers on either side, Brackets for the springs are wider than the springs. Do you carry these parts? Sorry I do not have any pictures

asked by: Larry E

Expert Reply:

Sounds like you replaced your slipper spring with a double eye spring. Either spring style will work just fine. Whichever style you prefer or think would be easier to convert your trailer to would be your best solution.

When replacing trailer leaf springs we strongly recommend you replace them in pairs. I would urge you to get a set of matching properly rated springs for your trailer as soon as possible.

If you look on the frame of your trailer there should be a plate with the trailer VIN number and the axle capacities of the trailer. You will want to pick leaf springs that are as close to the axle capacity as possible.

You will want to also measure the distance from eye to eye of your old leaf springs and then pick a leaf spring with the same weight capacity of your trailer axles and is slightly shorter (around 1 inch) to compensate for the sag and wear of the old leaf spring.

I have attached an FAQ articles that reviews trailer suspension components for you below to check out.

We carry several trailer suspension bushings that could work for you. Without knowing more dimensions of the bushings you are looking to replace the best recommendation I can make would be to have you check out the link I attached that shows all of the bushings we offer.

expert reply by: Jameson C