How to Determine Which Over Under Kit to Use on 1988 Coleman Trailer

Question:

Id like to purchase an axle flip kit for my 1988 Coleman Plantation. The suspension on it is 100 pure stock, but I dont know if its a 2-3/8inch or 3inch axle. Nor do I know if its a double eye spring. Is this something youd have reference for, and able to recommend the proper kit?

asked by: Andrew K

Helpful Expert Reply:

Your 1988 Coleman Plantation trailer most likely does not have a 3 inch axle, as this size typically indicates a higher capacity unit that wouldn't have been on this smaller trailer. With that being said, I do recommend verifying its diameter by measuring the axle, as its possible that it may even be a smaller 1-3/4 inch diameter axle based on the trailer weight I found in my research.

Unfortunately, trailer manufacturers don't often keep a good record of the various parts that are put on at the factory, so there is not an accurate database with this information available.

To determine what type of leaf springs you have, you will just want to take a look at their design. A double-eye spring features an "eye" hole at both ends, while a slipper spring has an "eye" at one end and an arched, open end on the other side. I have attached a couple images to further clarify the difference.

If you do find that you have a 2-3/8 inch axle with double-eye springs, you will need the Dexter Over-Under Conversion Kit # K71-384-00 to flip the axle. This will raise your trailer by the height of the axle and leaf spring stack. I have attached the installation instructions that you can also look through.

expert reply by: Chris R