Will Out Of Round Tires Cause Leaf Springs To Break

Question:

My left rear leaf spring broke on my 2016 Diamond cargo trailer, 16 ft, I took it to a trailer shop and they replaced it, I took it home about 50 miles drive and by the time I got it home the new leaf spring had broken, I tore it down today and found that tire was bad, out of round, worn, now 2 inches taller than the other tires, the plastic bushings on the equalizer are warn also, I plan on replacing the tire, wheel, equalizer, shackles and bushings, my question is, could that bad tire be my problem?

asked by: Gilbert V

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, the tire could have very well caused the issue with the leaf spring breaking as the weight is then not evenly transferred across the axle so one side was likely lifting more than the other. That said, you always want to replace the leaf springs in pairs as only replacing one would then create more stress on the other and it would be soon to follow. If the equalizers are worn that could then amplify the problem as well.

In order to help prevent the issues you are having I recommend upgrading to cushioned equalizers as these will then help reduce trailer wear and better help evenly distribute the weight across both axles. The E-Z Flex Heavy Duty Rubber Suspension System part # K71-652-00 for example is a great option with all of the above benefits as well as zerk fittings for easy maintenance. I have attached a list of our wheel/tire and leaf spring selection for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L