How to Determine Correct Leaf Spring Size on 6 X 12 Utility Trailer
Question:
I measured my current worn out leaf springs and they measure right at 26 - 26 1/4inch long, theyre on a 6x12 utility trailer and do I need to stick with 26inch or go with 25 1/4? Thanks
asked by: Jay M
Expert Reply:
When replacing the leaf springs on your 6 x 12 utility trailer you will need to match all of the dimensions and the spring capacity as closely as possible to the original spring. Usually the measurement from eye to eye will lengthen and the height measurement will decrease with wear. See picture I have included that will show the measurements you will need to match to replace your leaf springs.
The number of leaves in a spring pack does not have to remain the same as long as the weight capacity is inline with the trailer and axle rating and the measurements match the existing spring hardware.
The weight capacity of the trailer axle will also help you decide on the correct leaf springs. The trailer will have a plate or sticker on it that will list the VIN number. The weight capacity of the axle should be listed on that same plate or sticker. Also, the axle could have a tag or plate on it that will list the weight capacity.
You can also tell the weight capacity of the axle by measuring the diameter of the axle. A 2,000-lb axle will have an axle diameter of 1-3/4 inch. A 3,500-lb. axle will have a axle diameter of 2-3/8 inches and a 6,000-lb. to 7,200-lb. axle will have an axle diameter of 3 inches.
I am including a link to a FAQ page on trailer suspensions and it will list the axle diameters for different axle weight capacities.
Also, I am including a link to a product page on leaf springs. It will have a chart that will show the sizes and capacities of the leaf springs.
A common size axle on a 6 X 12 utility trailer is a 3,500-lb axle. For leaf springs on a 3,500-lb axle with an eye-to-eye dimension of 25-1/8 inches, I recommend the 4-Leaf Spring, part # e54SR. This spring has 4 leaves and is a double eye spring. You will want to make sure the measurements on this spring match the measurements on your existing leaf springs.
It is recommended to replace leaf springs in pairs to ensure a balanced load on the trailer when towing.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/8" Long
- Trailer Leaf Springs
- Double Eye Springs
- 3500 lbs
- 1-3/4 Inch Wide
- 4 Leaf
- 25-1/8 Inch Long
- Painted
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Zinc Shackle Bolt with Locknut for Double-Eye Springs - 3" Long
- Article: How to Accurately Measure Trailer Leaf Springs
- Article: How to Raise Your Travel Trailer Height
- Shop: Dexter Heavy Duty Suspension Upgrade Kit for Single Axle Trailers - Double Eye Springs
- Shop: CE Smith U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 2" Square Trailer Axles - 4-1/2" Long U-Bolts - Zinc
- Shop: Shackle Strap - 3-1/8" Long
- Shop: Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator - Drum - Primed - 8" Adjustable Channel Down - 8,000 lbs
- Shop: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,000-lb Trailer Axles - 26" Long
- Q&A: Distance from Bottom of Mounting Channel to Mounting Surface Demco Surge Coupler DM8759132
- Video: Review of CE Smith Trailer Leaf Spring Suspension - CE14026G
- Shop: Dexter Single Axle Heavy Duty Suspension Kit - Double Eye Springs
- Search Results: leaf spring suspension
- Video: Review of Dexter Trailer Leaf Spring Suspension - HD Suspension Upgrade Kit Single Axle - K71-358-00
- Video: etrailer Trailer Suspension - Leaf Spring Suspension - APS4 Review
- Search Results: 2500 lb axle
- Search Results: suspension upgrade
- Search Results: 007~126~00
- Search Results: ce23103
- Search Results: shackle upgrade
- Q&A: Are Trailer Spring Seats Needed for Square Axles with Leaf Springs?
- Q&A: Replacement Bushing for Rear Hanger with Bushing 30-20
- Search Results: springs
- Video: Optronics Streamline LED Trailer Light Installation
- Video: Review of Dexter Axle Trailer Leaf Spring Suspension - Replacement Shackle Link - DX55FR
- Video: Review of Demco Brake Actuator - Channel Down Surge Brake Actuator - DM8759132
- Video: Optronics Sealed Mini Rectangular LED Stud Mount Trailer Clearance Light Installation
- Q&A: Can Double Eye Trailer Leaf Springs Install Without Shackles
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: What are the Proper Components Needed to Install the Leaf springs On a Trailer
- Article: RV Sway Control, Stabilization, and Suspension Enhancement