How to Determine Correct Leaf Spring Hanger Placement for Proper Trailer Tongue Weight

Question:

mounting hangers on new trailer. I understand that the equalizers need to be mounted back from the front of the trailer at 60. Im assuming this measurement is from the front of the tongue. Is this also how the axles are aligned with the trailer frame?

asked by: MIKE R

Expert Reply:

To determine spring hanger placement for proper axle positioning you want to use the trailer tongue weight (TW) as a guide.

The coupler at the trailer tongue is used as the reference point for the axles' positions. The coupler to axle distance will determine how much TW the trailer has and the axle positions should be chosen to keep the trailer TW in the range of 10 to 15% of the gross trailer weight. The linked article on axle positioning gives you examples.

You also went to keep in mind that any permanent structures on the trailer like a tongue-mounted tool box like # DZ91716 which might eventually hold 75-lbs of tools, for example, will affect trailer TW and should also be kept in mind as axle placement is chosen.

Correct axle alignment starts with accurate hanger placement, ensuring the hangers on both sides of the trailer are positioned exactly the same distance from the coupler.

expert reply by: Adam R