Tandem Axle Trailer Suspension Hanger Kit To Provide More Axle Clearance

Question:

I own a 2003 currahee 16 foot 10K rated equipment trailer, pr-5 springs, on 5200 lb axles with 35 o/c. 7-3/4 standard equalizer, center frame clips hole center is 3-3/8 where the ends are 1-1/2, 60 inch out to out. Unloaded, level, only about 1.5 bump clearance, and no noticeable spring deflection. Loaded to less than 6K, I had dented axles. Installing all new components, but should I increase the frame clips height? do not want a repeat. Why are shorter used front and back?

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

It sounds as if your trailer suspension was built with the common Tandem-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit, # APT3, and that the springs and attachment hardware are wearing out enough that with the weight you are carrying there is no longer enough room for the suspension to work without contacting the trailer frame.

I would recommend stepping up to the Heavy Duty Tandem-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit, # APT3HD, or the Tandem-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit, # AP233-H248.

The # APT3HD kit comes with 2-1/2 inch tall front and rear hangers and 5-7/16 inch tall center hangers, and will provide for 33-1/2 inch axle centers.

The # AP233-H248 kit comes with 3-1/4 inch tall front and rear hangers and 3-5/8 inch tall center hangers, and will provide for 34 inch axle centers.

You will need to be sure there is clearance at the center between the wheel and tires for these slightly shorter axle to axle center. Your axle center may be measuring slightly longer due to the springs being worn and flattening out over time.

You will also need the U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb, Round Trailer Axles, # APUBR-9. U-bolts are installed with locking nuts and are considered one time use items.