How to Pick Out Leaf Spring for 1980s Boston Whaler Boat Trailer

Question:

I am refurbishing a double axle boat trailer for a 19080s Boston Whaler 22foot and I want to replace the leaf springs and balancing arm. The leaf spring mounting bolts measure 24inch from mounting bolt center to center and they have 5 leafs. The balancer arm measures 8inch bolt center to center. The overall dual axle leaf system measures 57.5inch bolt center to center. Oddly, the balancing arm bolt is not equidistant from the ends. It is 29inch from rear leaf mounting bolt center to center. The trailer has square axels. I can email a photo of the system. I am looking for recommendations for replacement the four leaf springs, mounting hardware, and balancing arms to replace the system.

asked by: Christopher W

Expert Reply:

Thank you for all the info you got for your trailer to pick out leaf springs. The easiest way to pick out the correct springs will be to first get the correct axle capacity for the axles you have and then get the correct length that you need.

So if you can get me those two pieces of info we'll be able to get you the best setup including the equalizer (balancing arm) that you need as well.

One way to get the capacity is to check the tongue of the trailer for the VIN plate that will have the capacity listed or you can check the axle for a plate or sticker with the GAWR listed.

A very common capacity is 3,500 like the part # e54SR which measures 25-1/8 inches from spring eye to spring eye which based on the dimensions you listed is probably pretty close if not definitely what you need.

expert reply by: Jameson C