Recommended 26 Double-Eye Leaf Spring For Boat Trailer With 3500 lbs Dexter Axle

Question:

Hello, I have a boat trailer with a 1987 dexter 3500# 2 3/8 single axle. i have double eye 5 leaf springs that I need to replace. I measure eye bolt to eye bolt and get 26 1/4 and about 26 from mount to where the shackle mount is, basically if the shackle was vertical, vs slightly extended rearward. I think the leaf has stretched a bit. the only 26 leaf spring I see is a 6 leaf 4500#, will that work? Better or worse than a 3500# set? The actual axle weight loaded is 3520#, so I am at max capacity. The total weight is 3800#.

asked by: Ryan S

Expert Reply:

I have an option for you, but I wouldn't use 4500lb springs on your 3500lb axle as it will stiffen up the suspension quite a bit and lead to more of an unpleasant towing experience.

Instead you will want to make sure that center of the spring eye to center of the spring eye measurement of 26-1/4" was with no weight on the spring, as weight on the spring will cause the spring to flatten slightly causing an inaccurate measurement.

If your measurement was without weight on the spring the 6-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,500-lb Trailer Axles - 26" Long # e27SR is the best option as it has the correct length, and the extra 500lb weight rating really wont be that noticeable.

If your measurement was with weight on the spring you will want to remeasure without weight on the spring, and you will more than likely need the 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/8" Long # e54SR which has the correct weight rating for your axle.

I see you mentioned that your trailer is a bit over weight at 3800lbs, so you will want to try and get it back down to 3500lbs or you will be putting extra stress on the axle and heat in the bearings which could wear them out prematurely.

expert reply by: Samuel C