Measuring to Determine the Right Size Shock to Use on a Trailer

Question:

Please advise which Lippert shocks I need. My trailer measures 11.5inch from bracket to bracket parked unladen. Thank you.

asked by: Charlie

Expert Reply:

If you are looking to add shocks then measure using the following procedure: Compress the shock all the way (A) then mark the inner leg where the outer leg stops. Then release compression and measure the stroke (how far the shock moves) (B). Then measure the half way point of the stroke (C). Then you measure the shock length with it compressed to the half way point (Fig. 4A). The measurement cannot exceed the fully extended or compressed lengths.

Add 2 inches to that last measurement. Make a measurement perpendicular to the shock mounting lip on the tie plate that is the same distance and make a mark on the I-beam parallel to the shock mounting lip on the tie plate. The shock should be up to a 45 degree angle but no more as shown in the picture for the Lippert kits.

If you are replacing a shock then the shocks you have may have a part number on them. If not let me know the diameter of the trailer axle and/or its capacity.

expert reply by: Michael H