Replacement Springs for a 2004 Cougar Model 278 5th Wheel Trailer

Question

Question:

I have a 2004 Cougar Model 278 - 5th wheel. The leaf spring shave almost no bow left and I would like to replace them. The manufacturer nameplate on the 5th wheel rates the axles at 3500 lbs each. A metal tag on each axle rates then at 4400 lbs less wheels, rims and tires. The trailer rides slightly nose high on my Dodge Ram 2500 and I have no adjustment room left on my pin box or hitch to lower the front end of the trailer. So along with replacing the springs I would like to lift the rear end of the 5th wheel slightly 1 inch +/- and also beef up the springs a little to take advantage of the axle 4400 lb axle rating. Currently there are four leafs in the springs. Under load the springs measure 26.25 - 26.5 each of the four are slightly different long eye to eye dimension A in your diagrams. Height dimension B appears to be about 1.5 inches. With the left side of the trailer jacked up, the left rear spring measures 25.75 inches and left front is 25.5 inches. Height appears to be 2.5 inches, but it is tough to measure reliably. Can you recommend a replacement spring for me? Does it make sense to go to a higher number of leafs for more lift? Thanks,

asked by: John W

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Expert Reply:

Since the trailer manufacturer rates the axles at 3,500 pounds each, that means that the 4,400 pound axle has been derated because of the placement of the suspension hardware on the axle, to fit your specific trailer. This means that there is no excess capacity to take advantage of.

Using a spring rated for a higher capacity than the manufacturer axle rating can cause other parts of the suspension, like the axle itself or bearings, to be the weakest link and take more abuse than intended, because of the stiffer ride.

A 25-1/8 inch eye to eye spring would be the correct choice for your trailer. Most likely your springs are flattened a bit from wear. More leafs in a spring pack will not raise the height of the trailer and the number of leafs does not determine the springs capacity. The best choice for your trailer would be the 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles, item # e54SR.

You will also need new U-bolts when replacing the springs, because U-Bolts are considered 1 time use items and the lock nut will damage the threads when coming off. You would need 4 packs of the 2-3/8 inch Round Trailer U-Bolts, item # SP01-040. You may also want to check the shackle straps. Shackle straps normally need to be replaced because they are one of the fastest wearing items in the suspension. If the bolt holes are stretched or worn oblong it is time to replace them, see link.

If your trailer is sitting high enough that it is causing issues with the suspension or towing, a visit to a local trailer dealer is in order. They will be able to determine how to adjust the suspension to get the trailer level when attached to your truck.

expert reply by: Robert G

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Replacement Springs for a 2004 Cougar Model 278 5th Wheel Trailer

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