Effect of Installing Shorter Shackle Straps on Trailer with Axle Over-Under Kit
Updated 04/10/2025 | Published 07/08/2016
Question:
Previous owner did a axle flip kit. Putting axles under springs for more height. Level trailer is at 28 1/2inch and my truck is at 26inch to top of ball. Im wondering if I put longer shackles to lower the trailer some, will I come across any problems. Dont really want to flip axles back to the top because I dont really want to loose all the Clearance. Just want to suck up maybe a inch or two to get it closer to being level with my truck.
asked by: Michael
Expert Reply:
To slightly lower your trailer that has had an "axle flip" kit installed you would want to use slightly shorter shackle straps, not longer ones. Shorter shackles will let the axle rest closer to the trailer frame, which lowers the trailer height. If you refer to the linked article on trailer suspensions you can see the included diagrams that show both tandem and single-axle configurations. This will help you visualize the effect of installing shorter shackle straps. I also linked our main page for shackle straps so you can select the ones with the length you require. You will want to ensure that you'll still have clearance for normal suspension travel.
A simpler solution is to use an adjustable ball mount that can be moved to allow for the hitched trailer to remain level. A link to these is also included for you.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Replacement Shackle Strap - 2-5/8" Long
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Steven H.
4/10/2025
Hi Adam, My boat trailer had to have new adjustable fender/hangar assembly installed after a blowout mangled the old one (replacement from OEM was cheaper than me repairing). I did not get a measurement of the old spring hangar distances before discarding. I noticed the other day that the axle looks very far back in the fender well. The shackle straps are about 5" center to center. I am confident that the existing leaf packs are old enough I should replace. Would shortening the shackle strap move the axle forward in the fender well? Or should I start with new leaf packs and see if that helps?
Robin H.
4/10/2025