Replacing Leaf Springs on a 2004 Keystone Sprinter 5th Wheel Camper

Question:

I just bought a 2004 Keystone Sprinter 5th wheel camper. The previous owner had new tires installed, 225/75/15. It appears the original size were 205/75/15 so they are slightly taller and you can see where the tires had contacted the top of the wheel well, most likely going in and out of steep driveways. The axles seem to be AL-KO T35 2 3/8 tubing with 10 inch brakes with 4 leaf springs 25.25 inch and according to there website 1750# springs and being 15 years old they seem to be VERY flat! My question is if I replace the leafs springs should I stick with 3500# axle springs or could I go with a slightly heavier spring, which should also help with my clearance problem. I understand that heavier springs wont increase the capacity of the trailer but will it hurt to do so? Thanks,

asked by: Steve M

Expert Reply:

If you go with a heavier spring I don't recommend going with one that is rated for too much more weight. Leaf springs are supposed to have a certain amount of flex to help cushion any impact. A spring that is rated for too much weight will not have enough give and it will make your trailer ride much more stiff.

If your 2004 Keystone Sprinter initially had 25-1/4" springs installed on 3,500 lb axles then I recommend going with the 3-Leaf Double-Eye Spring # e57SR which is the same length and is rated for a 4,000 lb axle.

You may be able to get away with the larger tires but I definitely would keep an eye on them as wheel well contact will cause damage and make your tires prone to blowouts. If they are damaged I would go ahead and replace them but if they look okay then I would just be careful while towing.

expert reply by: Jon G