Troubleshooting Sagging Suspension on 1990 Stratos Trailer

Question:

Hi, I am having an issue with the tires on my trailer rubbing the rear of the insides of my fenders at times, assuming when hitting bumps/expansion joints on the highway. Normal ride height and axle position appears normal with approx. 2 in + of clearance between tire and fender. I disassembled the suspension looking for any issues and the only thing I have found is some up and down elongation of the rear spring mount that is welded to the frame where the shackle bolts up. I hope I have explained this well enough to make some sense. Trailer has stock wheels and stock size trailer tires.1990 Stratos Trail Trailer , 17-6 Fish and Ski on trailer.

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

The usual minimum recommended clearance between the top of a trailer tire and the fender above it is 3 to 4 inches. Normal trailer suspension travel requires this much clearance. It is surprising that original OEM wheels and tires would provide for only 2-inches of clearance. By chance, were the fenders changed out? You could have worn sagging springs that can no longer suspend the trailer deck at the correct height. If the original springs are still on this trailer they could certainly be worn.

If your spring hangers' mounting holes have become elongated you will want to have a qualified welder replace them with new ones. Our main page for spring hangers is linked for you. Click on your spring type (double-eye or slipper type) and then on size of hanger you need. I also linked our page for other trailer suspension parts.

The elongation of the hole in the spring hanger can occur from lots of normal use but it could also occur is the trailer was overloaded beyond its rated capacity. Make sure your shackle straps do not also have this same problem and replace any with holes that are elongated.

expert reply by: Adam R