How To Raise An Old 1973 Vintage Trailer

Question:

I need to raise the height of my vintage trailer 1973 it has 2 axels would like to raise it about 3 in how many shakel straps would I need and do I do anything with the equalizer and can you give me instructions on how to do it trailer weight is about 5000 lbs thanks

asked by: Larry

Helpful Expert Reply:

I do have options for you to raise your trailer but installing longer shackle straps and equalizers would not do much if at all to raise the trailer. Instead, you have three options which would be to A) flip the axles, B) install taller leaf spring hangers, or C) install larger wheels/tires.

The easiest option will be to install new wheels/tires but this option will also provide the least amount of height increase and it is unlikely that you would get a full 3". If you can tell me the size of tires you have now, I would be happy to provide options. I have attached a list of our wheel/tire combos for you as well.

The next best option for you would be to install an axle flip kit but this will only work for you if you have leaf spring axles and the leaf springs are below the axle tube. If they are then you can use the Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit part # K71-384-00 for 2-3/8" diameter axles or part # K71-385-00 for 3" diameter axles. These kits will raise the trailer equal to the height of the leaf spring stack, height of the leaf spring seat, and height of the axle tube.

The final option you have would be to install taller leaf spring hangers. This option will be the most cost effective but it will also require the most work as you will have to cut off the existing hangers and weld new ones on. If you can provide me with the dimensions of your leaf spring hangers I can then provide you with options but if not I have attached a list of leaf spring hangers for you.

expert reply by: Conner L