Empty Homemade Trailer Has Excessive Bounce When Unloaded

Question:

I have a small home made kit trailer of my fathers. Its awesome except that when not loaded down, it bounces all over the place. Im considering larger less psi tires currently 80 psi. Im wondering if changing the springs would help. Possibly rusted together sat for 8 yrs New springs...less stiff?

asked by: Dav I

Expert Reply:

What you are experiencing is quite common with a lot of homemade trailers. What I do see a lot is they will use mobile home axles and springs which have a very stiff ride. By determining what weight capacity springs are on the trailer you can determine if changing the Leaf Springs # SP-210275 will help. If you are unable to find any markings on the springs for weight capacity as you said they sat for a long time and likely rusted it would be best to replace the springs. I can help you find the right replacement springs if you can send me some measurements off your current springs as well as weight rating on the trailer.

Another great item you can add is SumoSprings Trailer Helper Springs. They have them for 3,000-5,000LB Underslung Axles # TSS-106-40 and 3,000-5,000LB Overslung Axles # TSS-107-40. These help to act as shock absorbers when you do not have any weight on the trailer and reduce the amount of bounce you are getting. Since it is a progressive material it also helps to reduce body roll when the trailer is loaded.

expert reply by: Bud M