Recommended Suspension Upgrades For A 1965 Streamline Empress

Question:

I measured several times the distance between the equalizers bolt holes from 1/2 of one to 1/2 of the other. The bottom two holes are 7” apart and the height is 3.5”. Which equalizer should I order. I am replacing the existing one on a 1965 Streamline Empress. The springs are 28” long and it is a double axle. I will also need a bolt shackle upgrade kit. Ty

asked by: Skip

Helpful Expert Reply:

To replace your 7" long 3-1/2" tall equalizer I recommend the MORryde Rubber Equalizers # MR87ZR. These will be a nice upgrade from a standard equalizer as they feature rubber inserts to help absorb road shock. The MORryde equalizer measures 6-1/2" long and 3-1/2" tall, making it a suitable replacement size-wise.

As far as the bolt and shackle kit, we recommend the MORryde wet bolt kits. The shackles are 1/2" thick and are highly durable. With proper maintenance, the bronze bushings and wet bolts can last a very long time. This will be a significant upgrade from stock.

We will need to get one more measurement from you in order to recommend the correct kit. That being the length of the current shackle straps, measured center hole to center hole. The most common shackle sizes are 2-1/4" long or 3-1/8" long. If you come up with a different size, feel free to send me that measurement, otherwise you can pick from the following options.

MORryde Suspension Upgrade Kit for Tandem Axle Trailers - 2-1/4" Long Shackle Straps # MR46ZR
MORryde Suspension Upgrade Kit for Tandem Axle Trailers - 3-1/8" Long Shackle Straps # MR76ZR

I will add that we do not offer any 28" long leaf springs. The closest we have will be a 27" long 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles # e97SR. We do suggest measuring your springs when not under a load, to get an accurate reading. This usually requires jacking up the trailer. This will give you the most accurate measurement. Also confirming the axle weight capacity can help in this selection.

Leaf springs can flex up to 1", so it may be that your 28" spring is more like 27" when not flexed. You will want to verify this to make sure you get the right size.