How Much Deflection is there with Leaf Spring e34SR for 6K Axles when Loaded to Capacity

Question:

Im going to be changing out an axle, springs, tires, and wheels on a trailer soon and have to go to an increased tire diameter. Id like to make sure that I have enough clearance for the new tire under loaded bounce conditions. This is the spring set that Im looking at due to the weight class of it. What Im looking for and cant seem to find anywhere is how much movement should I expect from a spring set. Is there a drawing or even a rule of thumb to go by here? Should I assume that under full load and after hitting a bump the spring will only go to fully flat/straight and no further? Once I know the dimensions of the springs in this condition I can calculate out the rest based upon the height and distances on my hangers and shackles. Ive already figured out everything else, this is about my final check before I start ordering parts, but it is a deciding factor as to whether or not I have to change out my hanger height or not.

asked by: Adrian G

Expert Reply:

Trailer leaf spring # e34SR, when a pair are used and loaded to the maximum of 6,000 pounds, would not completely flatten out just sitting. But when going over bumps it will bottom out at the max load. That would be 3 inches of deflection but you will want to shoot for a little more clearance to be on the safe side since it sounds like you might be doing some heavy duty towing!

Another option is to use an axle-less system such as # TASR7KS01 which has built-in suspension. This system is rated for 7,000 pounds and works with hubs # 42866UC3-EZ. This axle-less system has a deflection of 1-7/8 inches and the rubber springs require no maintenance unlike traditional suspension. When installed the center of the hub will be 3-1/2 inches from the bottom of the trailer frame.

expert reply by: Michael H