How to Determine the Correct Leaf Springs and Parts for Suspension 1956 Shasta Camper

Question:

The trailer has old springs I cant match. It has a 1 1/2 square ped axle. 4 1/2 to 5 . I would like to put updated springs in it. I can do the installation with no problem. What i dont know is if I need 2000 lbs springs or 3000 lbs. Im guessing the weight tobe around 1200 lbs for the trailer. I just need a little help.

asked by: Vince

Expert Reply:

To determine the correct parts you need to replace the springs on your trailer you will need to do some measuring and find the GVRW, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, of your trailer.

Measure the distance between the center of each eye on your trailers existing springs. The new springs you select should then match 1/2 of the trailer GVWR and the distance of the measurement you take. If you find that the measurement on your springs is 1/2 to 1 inch longer than the measurement of a spring that is the correct weight rating, this is most likely due to wear and sagging of your spring and the match would work on your trailer.

You will also need to measure the center to center dimension on your shackle straps (see link). The shackle straps are normally the first item that needs to be replaced in a trailer suspension.

If you need to replace the hangers measure from the center of the bolt hole to the top of the hanger to determine the correct hangers for the front and the back of the trailer.

For U-bolts you will need the 1-1/2 inch Square Trailer U-Bolts (Qty 2), item # SP01-120, and the U-Bolt Plate for 1-1/2 inch Square Trailer Axles with 1-3/4 inch Wide Springs, item # 115983.

With the above mentioned measurements and parts you will be able to accurately choose the correct springs and parts for your trailer suspension.