Slipper Spring Suspension Replacement on 1991 Shorelander

Question:

With an open-ended leaf spring where should the bushing reside? in the pocket with no weight? I am anxiously waiting the arrival, expected tomorrow of a disc brake kit that I just ordered and Im going through the suspension first. i have removed everything and it looks like someone has drilled an extra hole. original holes were 25 in from pin-to-pin and the 2nd hole is 25 and 3/4 and it looks like the spring is a 26 1/4 and it is model number enco fdd9 c-4

asked by: Jeffrey H

Expert Reply:

A bushing isn't required for slipper springs, but if your bolt has one it would reside in the "C" pocket at the end of the spring. The one thing that would worry me is that extra drilled hole on that hanger being too close to the original one and the strength of the hanger being compromised. There are hangers that have two holes in them so you can use either height setting, but they come from the factory that way-these are either drilled after the fact or very worn and it wouldn't be a bad idea to replace them anyways.

Since you're already pulling things apart and replacing worn parts you might want to consider replacing the hangers as well. You'll need to measure your current hangers to make sure that you don't change the lift on your trailer too much, but a hanger kit like the Single Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for Slipper Springs # APS3SE would replace what you currently have.

If you can let me know the measurements of your front and rear hangers I can recommend the appropriate replacement for your suspension.

expert reply by: Erik B