Best Shocks for Tandem Axle 5th Wheel Trailer

Question:

I would like to know the correct length to order for a double pin type shock. The bracket to bracket length when sitting with a normal load is 8 1/2 inches. The angle is less than 45 degrees, probably 30 to 35 degrees. Max. GVW is 5000 lb. as it is a small unit 23 ft. Thank you very much for any help you can give.

asked by: Roger R

Expert Reply:

I am not sure what you mean by double pin shock but we do have shock kits for 5th wheel trailers that are shown on the page I linked for you. A tandem axle 5th wheel trailer with a GVW of only 5000-lbs is pretty rare but trailers are getting lighter these says thanks to the availability of composite materials. Even so, a lightweight tandem axle 5th wheel such as a Jayco Eagle HT still has a GVW rating of almost 10K.

You'll want to confirm the weight rating of the trailer's axles themselves to be sure you're selecting shocks of the appropriate capacity. We have two tandem trailer shock kits and the one closest to your weight rating is Roadmaster Comfort Ride kit # RM-2450 which consists of 4 shocks designed to work on 3500-lb axles with a diameter of 2-3/8-inches. This kit includes adjustable mounting brackets and hardware. You can refer to the included photo to see these installed.

These shocks will mount at roughly a 45-degree angle and so they will have the vertical leverage necessary to limit up-and-down motion during both compression and rebound.

These shocks have a compressed length of 11-1/2-inches and an extended length of 17-1/2-inches.

expert reply by: Adam R