How to find the right Trailer Springs AI guide
Written by an AI model from its trained knowledge.
What the AI looks for in Trailer Springs
- Spring type
- Double-eye springs bolt at both ends. Slipper springs have one eye and one open end that rides in a hanger. Replace like for like. Hangers and equalizers are built for one style only.
- Capacity per spring
- Match the rated capacity of the original (often stamped or tagged). A pair should support the axle's rating. Under-rated springs sag and flatten; over-rated ones ride harshly and beat the trailer.
- Dimensions
- Measure eye-to-eye or eye-to-end length unloaded, spring width (many light and medium trailers use 1-3/4 in), leaf count, and eye ID. Length and width must fit the existing hangers and U-bolts.
- Bushings and hardware
- Use the bushing type the spring takes (nylon or bronze). Replace shackles, bolts and U-bolts with the springs. Worn shackles and bolts let the axle shift and cause tire wear.
- Replace as a set
- Replace both springs on an axle, and all springs on a tandem or triple. Mixed old and new springs unbalance the load between axles.
Brands that matter
- Dexter: OEM-standard springs and suspension parts.
- Lippert: Common OEM springs and hangers on RVs and cargo trailers.
- Rockwell American: Springs and suspension hardware kits.
- Southwest Wheel: Aftermarket springs and hanger kits.
- MORryde: Equalizer and suspension upgrade systems for RV tandems.
What to avoid
- Reusing old U-bolts
- Mixing spring capacities between axles
- Ordering by trailer model without measuring the old spring
Questions
Should I upgrade to wet bolts or an equalizer kit while replacing springs?
On heavy or frequently towed tandem trailers it is a common, worthwhile upgrade. Greaseable bolts and bushings reduce shackle wear.