How to Determine if Trailer Axles Should Go Above or Below Leaf Springs

Question:

Im installing a new set of D217242 springs on a utility trailer. How do I decide if the axle should go above the springs or below the springs. The old springs had the axle below the springs. The old springs were lighter springs. I beefed up the trailer for added weight. What do you think?

asked by: Greg M

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you were happy with the ground clearance that the trailer had with the old setup then I would recommend you stick with the way you had it with the axle below the springs. If you moved the axle above the spring you would lose ground clearance and would have to re-weld the spring seats on the axles.

The only reason to switch from what you had would be if you needed the trailer to sit lower. We do sell kits to move the axle though.

The diameter of your trailer axle will determine the size of the parts that you will need to order. If your axle is 3 inches diameter, the Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit, # K71-385-00, would be a great choice and if your axle is 2-3/8 inch diameter you could use the Over-Under Kit, # K71-384-00. These kits can be installed without welding but the manufacturer strongly recommends having the new spring seat tacked in place on the other side of the trailer axle.

Some refer to this process as "flipping the axles," but since axle has a slight bow to it you can't just flip them and reinstall them under the springs using the same spring seats. You have to install new spring seats on the opposite side of the axle so that it can be moved below the spring.

expert reply by: Jameson C