Can a Three Leaf Spring Stack Be Used To Replace a Two Leaf Spring Stack

Question:

I need to change my leaf spring suspension on my trailer. The actual ones are 2 leaf springs and I already have 3 leaf springs replacements. Is it possible to install 3 leaf springs on a trailer that currently has 2 leaf springs?

asked by: Vincent P

Expert Reply:

Yes, you can replace a two leaf spring stack with a three leaf spring stack so long as your center to center (double eye springs only) measurement matches but please note the loaded and unloaded as well as the new and used center to center measurements will be different. There is a correlation between the numbers of leaves in a stack and the weight capacity of that stack but there are also two leaf spring stacks with the same weight capacity as three leaf spring stacks so going by the rated weight capacity is best, not the number of leaves. The trailer will gain a very small amount of height from the added leaf but this is most likely not going to be noticable.

Please note that whenever you replace leaf springs you will need to do the u-bolts as well because these are torque to yield which means one time use only. The two most popular kits are part # APUBR-1 for 2-3/8" diameter (3,500 lb) axles or part # APUBR-9 for 3" diameter (5,200 - 7,000 lb) axles. If you have a different axle just let me know.

expert reply by: Conner L