Does 3,500 lb Leaf Spring Need to Have Same Number of Leaves as Original

Question:

I have a 1965 20’ fireball travel trailer with what I believe are 2 3500lb 2” square axles, I want to replace the leafs just to be on the safe side but the springs it has have 7 leafs. Would it be ok to use a 3500lb 3 leaf or 4 leaf spring in place of the 7 leaf? Thank you

asked by: RD S

Expert Reply:

Yes, you can replace your 3,500 lb 7-leaf springs with leaf springs that have 3 or 4 leaves because the weight rating is the same. The number of leaves isn't a determining factor; for example, there are 4-leaf springs for both 2k and 6k axles. So you simply need springs with the correct rating for your axle, as well as the right length.

For that, you'll want to measure the length from center-to-center of the spring eyes, taking into account you current leaf springs will have elongated a bit over time. Once you have that measurement you can choose from the following (with all dimensions being the center eye to center eye measurement):

- 23-1/8" Long: 3-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles # e59SR

- 25-1/8" Long: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles # e54SR

- 27" Long: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles # e97SR

Then for mounting on your 2" square axle you can use the CE Smith U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 2" Square Trailer Axles - 4-1/2" Long U-Bolts # CE23103.