Replacement Suspension Parts for 18 Utility Trailer

Question:

I am working on an 18’ utility trailer that needs all new suspension from the frame to the axle along with u-bolts and plates. I am not sure what the rating is on the axles by they are 3” round axles w/6lug hubs I found a new leaf spring #pr4 that as far as I can tell is a match to the 25+ year old springs on it. The Hangers seem to be 1.5” f/r and 2.5” center. With 3” axles w/6 lug hubs isn’t it safe to say axle is 5-6k? If so will this kit work for my application along with giving trailer a higher ride height? Which wouldn’t hurt at all because the ubolts had been contacting the underside of the trailer which could also be from suspension being wore out. What leaf springs And u bolts would you recommend going with? Thanks in advance for any help you can give me.

asked by: Alan F

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you have a serial number on your trailer axle or a plate or sticker on it that will list the VIN number, you can completely confirm your axle capacity but a 3" axle measurement would usually indicate a 5,200lbs or 6,000lbs axle.

The Tandem-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for Double Eye Springs # APT5 would be a sufficient capacity kit this application.

For leaf springs, #PR4 is for a 4,000lb axle and maybe underrated. The 5-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 6,000-lb Trailer Axles is also 25-1/4" Long # e34SR but rated for 6,000lbs. You will want to measure eye center to eye center at 25-1/4", a spring width 1-3/4" and a 9/16"eye diameter to confirm this would be replacement. The included diagram provides the dimensions.

The CE Smith Replacement U-Bolt w/ Nuts for 3" Round Axles # CE15287GA will be fine option for your u-bolts and are galvanized to provide some additional corrosion resistance.

Included are video resources for more information as well.