Will Leaf Spring for 5,000-lb Trailer Axles Work w/ 5,200 lb Dexter Axle on 7,000 lb GVWR Trailer

Question:

I have a 2012 PJ Trailer, Carhauler C5182. The trailer has a 7,000 lb GVWR. The axles have fatigued and the wheels no longer have the correct camber. I’m hoping to upgrade to the Dexter 5,200 lb axles with electric brakes. As well, upgrade the wheels and leaf springs. On your site I found a 5,000 lb leaf spring part # SP-218275. These springs measure 25-1/4 eye to eye which matches the existing springs and hangers. Is there a better spring to go with this axle that would allow me to keep the mounts in the same locations?

asked by: John Y

Expert Reply:

The most important measurement for replacing double-eye leaf springs is the center-eye to center-eye measurement, and if the 25-1/4" measurement of the 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 5,000-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long # e44SR is what you need (which is what it sounds like), then you can go with it.

The fact that it is rated for 5,000 lbs won't come into play in regards to matching the 5,200 lb rating of the Dexter Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes - E-Z Lube - 6 on 5-1/2 Bolt Pattern # 6340624-EB. Since your trailer has a 7,000 lb GVWR the springs and axle are far overrated anyhow, which is the concern.

Springs rated for so much higher than your trailer are going to give you quite a stiff ride, and axles rated for more than the trailer won't offer anything in regards to durability. I think you would be better off going with a 3,500 lb rated leaf spring that has a very similar center-eye to center-eye measurement of 25-1/8", and there is a 3,500 lb Dexter axle with the same measurements as the 5,200 lb axle you mentioned. The difference being you won't be paying for added capacity you aren't using. The parts I do recommend considering are the following:

- Dexter Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes - E-Z Lube - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 95" - 3,500 lbs # 7359765-EB

- 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/8" Long # e54SR

I have added a link below to some video reviews as well as a help article on trailer suspension you may want to check out.