Can Trailer With Existing 3-1/2" Shackle Straps Use 2-5/16" Shackle Straps From Equalizer Kit

Question:

I have a question about shackle strap length and if changing that does anything to the trailer I have a big Tex 2015 60ch and I’m redoing the equalizers on them and the shackle straps that come with the kit are 2-5/16s and my trailer currently has 3-1/2 if I get the 2-5/16 is it going to change anything of us there another kit with equalizers and 3-1/2 shackle straps thank you

asked by: Anthony D

Expert Reply:

Switching the shackle straps on your 2015 Big Tex 60CH would not be a good idea, especially since you would be using a significantly shorter size. In general, you want to keep the same length since swapping them out will change the suspension geometry and cause problems. Sometimes you need to use a longer shackle if you get a tall equalizer but I'm sure that doesn't apply here.

Assuming you truly have 3-1/2" shackle straps you aren't going to find a kit with those since they aren't a standard size. The measurement should be from center of hole to center of hole on the shackle strap. You can replace what comes with the kit using the # TRSL350.

expert reply by: Robin H