How to Identify Leaf Spring Capacity on 2004 Forest River Cherokee Travel Trailer

Question:

My camper that weighs 5500 lb has 2 axles with off set ends. The leaf springs in it are 3 layers 25 1/4 x1 3/4 wide are these 1000lb or 1750lb I’m thinking there wrong

asked by: Ron

Helpful Expert Reply:

I am assuming your dry weight is 5,500 lbs. It sounds like you have something like the 2004 Forest River Cherokee M-28C with a UVW of 5,490 lbs. The GVWR for this travel trailer is 7,590 lbs. Subtracting the tongue weight would put you under 7k, so more than likely you have 3,500 lb axles. This would mean that your leaf springs would be 1,750 lb leaf springs. Since you are saying you think they are wrong, I'm guessing you mean they aren't working well. Based on the age of the trailer I'm sure your leaf springs are worn out.

Also, the length of the leaf spring and the leaf count do not indicate the capacity. The capacity of the leaf springs will match up to your axles. I recommend verifying this information by taking a look at the axles on your travel trailer. The capacity is typically found on the axle tag. If you don't see it there, you could use the diameter of the axle. A typical 3,500 lb axle has a 2-3/8" diameter.

If you find that you do have 3,500 lb axles you could use the 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/8" Long # e68SR as a replacement. This has an extra leaf but it will not be a problem since the overall capacity is what matters.

Since you're replacing the leaf springs I would also highly recommend upgrading your shackle straps, bushings, and bolts. If you have 2-1/4" long shackles straps you can use the MORryde Suspension Upgrade Kit for Tandem Axle Trailers - 2-1/4" Long Shackle Straps # MR46ZR. If you have 3-1/8" shackle straps you would need the # MR76ZR.

expert reply by: Robin H