Recommendation For Spring Over Axle Conversion Kit To Use on Trailer With 3,500-Lb Axles

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Question:

I am considering buying this part to do a spring-over-axle conversion on my trailer. I measured my trailer axles circumference with a tailors tape and got 7 5/8. This works out to a 2.43inch diameter. You have SOA conversions for a 3inch axle and a 2 3/8inch axle. My measurement is about 1/16inch away from 2 3/8. Can I assume that its actually 2 3/8, and that trailer axles dont commonly come in 2 7/16inch diameter? I would think that the difference is due to imprecision in measuring, but I would also hate to do something dumb that would render my trailer unsafe. For perspective, the axles are rated for 3500# each. Thanks!

asked by: Joshua

0

Expert Reply:

The typical axle diameter for an axle that is rated for 3,500-lbs is 2-3/8 inches. Some can have a 3-1/2 inch diameter, but it is very rare.

I would recommend to use the Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit, part # K71-384-00, you have referenced, which is designed for the 3,500-lb axle with the 2-3/8 inch diameter.

The Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit, part # K71-385-00, is designed for the 3-inch diameter axle that is used on 6,000-lb and 7,200-lb axles.

I am including a picture that will show how the new parts will be installed on your trailer.

When lifting your trailer you need to keep in mind that the geometry of the trailer will change. You may encounter lower or heavier tongue weight, and/or the trailer may become top heavy, contributing to trailer sway and instability, especially when passing large trucks or in high winds. In these situations, it may require you to go with a weight distribution system with sway control, if you are not already using one. I am including a link to a FAQ page on weight distribution and sway control for you to review.

expert reply by: Jeff D

0

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Paul

5/25/2020

Hi. Looking for a spring over axle kit for my camper. It has twin 6,000 lb axles that are 3 1/8 inch diameter. What kit do I need? Thank you

Reply

Chris R.

5/28/2020

Unfortunately we don't have an Over-Under Conversion Kit designed for 3-1/8" diameter axles. Another good way to lift up your trailer is to simply replace your existing hangers with longer ones. If you decide to go this route I've linked our full hanger selection below.

Helpful Links

dept-pg-trailer_leaf_spring_suspension-pt-hangers.aspx

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Answer 1

In order to find the correct fit, you are going to have to do a little measuring. You will want to start by measuring the width of your current step assembly, followed by the height from step to step. After that, you will want to measure from the…

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Answer 2

The first and easiest thing you should check is that the trailer is being towed level. If the trailer is nose high or low that can cause the equalizers to not sit level. You will need to select the correct rise/drop ball mount so that the trailer…

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Answer 3

Thanks for those photos they were helpful, and the equalizer looks fine; so if the springs are not sagging excessively, what I recommend is adding an over/under kit, or what is commonly called "flipping the axle". What this does is moves…

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Answer 4

A side mounted jack that you could pivot up and out of the way for better ground clearance would work just fine. The A-frame location is convenient but in a situation like yours you certainly could go with the side mounted style. For that something…

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Answer 5

I would recommend to use the treated torx screws for ACQ (Alkaline Copper Quaternary) treated wood for better corrosion and rust resistance. The treated torx screws like the Redline 2-1/2 Inch Long Torx Trailer Screw for ACQ Treated Wood, part…

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Answer 6

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

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Answer 7

You can use leaf springs that are rated higher than the axle without any issues as long as they measure the correct measurement for your trailer. For example the 6-leaf double eye spring for 7,000 lb axles part #e64SR measures 24-7/8" eye to…

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Answer 8

Hey Darrel, we actually have exactly what you are looking for with the part #TRU52FR which is for a 7k axle and is 25-1/4 inch from eye to eye. This is also a 6 leaf spring as well. The spring you referenced would be too short.

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Answer 9

The determine the correct replacement leaf spring on your 2021 Coachmen 259FKDS you'll need to lift your trailer frame so the spring is hanging freely and then measure from center-eye to center-eye, then for the equalizer you need to measure…

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Answer 10

Hey Mark, I looked up the specs of the spring you have now and found that it is a 24-3/4 inch long spring from eye center to eye center and for a 7k axle. So that means that the replacement spring part #EM28AJ that you referenced will work great as a…

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Answer 11

Thank you for providing the specs for the suspension components that you already have. Correct hanger spacing really depends on the components being used such as springs, hangers and equalizers. Most of the hanger spacing dimensions that we have are…

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Answer 12

Hey Bekzod, So while we don't have a way of knowing the exact leaf springs for your Arctic Wolf 5th wheel trailer, I can help you determine the correct replacements. You do have to take a measurement, though it's pretty easy, as all you need…

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Recommendation For Spring Over Axle Conversion Kit To Use on Trailer With 3,500-Lb Axles

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