Replacing Boat Trailer 3-Leaf Slipper Springs to Correct for Reduced Wheel/Fender Clearance
Question:
i am going to replace slipper springs on a karavan boat trailer that carries a 16ft lund with 30hp motor. i do not know the axle capacity of this trailer. The axle measures 1.5 in square. The existing springs are 3 leaf, 1 3/4inch wide 26long. The existing springs are rusted and when boat is loaded the wheels scrape the fenders with any extra weight added to the boat, so I would like some extra capacity. How do you determine axle capacity? and what springs would you recommend?
asked by: Larry
Helpful Expert Reply:
Axle capacity is usually found on a plate or sticker affixed to the axle itself. 3-leaf slipper springs in the 1-3/4-inch width you referenced can be seen on the included link.
Since well-worn springs like yours tend to become elongated I suspect your existing springs when new were this length and that your axle is rated for 1500-lbs. In some instances it may be possible to find higher-rated springs that will fit on your trailer but substituting these will not necessarily increase the trailer's capacity. The spring is but one part of the overall trailer design and the rest of the trailer (frame, axles and brakes) must also share the higher capacity of a different spring in order for the trailer's actual overall capacity to increase.
Even if you just replace your worn springs with new ones of the same rating you will find that the suspension geometry will return to a more normal position and correct your clearance problem.
The linked article on slipper spring suspensions may be of interest to you.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Rust-Resistant 4-Leaf Slipper Spring for 4,300-lb Trailer Axles - 26-1/4" - Dacromet
- Trailer Leaf Springs
- Slipper Springs
- Open Eye
- 4300 lbs
- 1-3/4 Inch Wide
- 4 Leaf
- 26-1/4 Inch Long
- Dacromet
- etrailer
more information >
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