Replacement Axle and Leaf Springs for 1970s Shoreline Single Axle Boat Trailer

Question:

I have an old 1970s Shoreline Boat trailer that needs new leaf springs. They have rusted thru and broken. The spring length bolt hole to bolt hole is 23.5. The total weight of the 15foot boat / 55HP motor and gear is less than 2000#. It is a single axle trailer. The axle bar may need to be replaced as well due to rust damage. The id sticker is long gone off the trailer, so no info from the trailer is available, and the maker of the trailer is out of business as well Shoreline. Starting with the springs, what do you have that would work with this trailer?

asked by: Mark A

Expert Reply:

Since your axle capacity is unknown - and since it is also rust damaged - you're probably on the right track in thinking of replacing it. We offer both axle beams by themselves and in kits that also include hubs, bearings, races etc. Please see the linked page.

We also offer axle-less suspension systems from Timbren, such as their 3500-lb-rated # ASR3500S05. These unique systems mount directly to your trailer frame - no axle needed - and they can save you lots of install time, potentially reduce your trailer's weight and improve your ground clearance too. These kits are offered without hubs, with idler hubs or with hub/drums and electric brakes. These use rubber springs that are mounted inside their main assembly where they are well protected from damage. Please see the other linked page to view Timbren systems.

We offer beam axles up to a 3500-lbs rating and again these are offered with and without hubs. For example, if you need a 3500-lb-rated 89-inch axle (measured hub face to hub face) with 5-on-4-1/2 idler hubs and 74-inch spring centers you can use # 35545I-EZ-89. Filters on the page let you click on your requirements to narrow down the products shown. The linked diagram illustrates the hub face and spring center measurements.

Really well-used leaf springs can become elongated; it is possible for a leaf spring to stretch by as much as 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch, so a spring that now measures 23-1/2-inches may be originally been shorter. A link is provided to our main page for leaf springs, both double-eye and slipper types. You can click on your spring's width, number of leaves and nearest length to view potential replacements. These are available in axle ratings from 1000-lbs up.

expert reply by: Adam R