What Is The Difference Between Different Sized Hangers, Equalizers, And Shackle Straps
Updated 01/05/2024 | Published 12/27/2023
Question:
What is the difference in the different heights of the weld on leaf spring brackets ,and different lengths of equalizers for tandem 3500lb axles? I understand why they are different heights so the leaf springs are level once installed, but I have seen couple different kits with different heights of brackets, and different lengths of equalizers. Does one kit give more suspension travel than the other ? Or does it give more ground clearance? Is the length of the equalizer like 6 or so inches and I think 7 3/4 based off the length of the shackles ? Please explain the different kits with different height brackets and different lengths of equalizers. Thanks
asked by: Joe K
Expert Reply:
Leaf spring hangers come in different heights to provide more or less clearance between the trailer body and the suspension. Manufacturers determine the best spacing for the axles and sizes of the hangers, leaf springs, equalizers, and shackle straps based on a number of factors to provide a stable base capable of handling the weight and any bumps in the road along the way.
When replacing these components we always recommend matching the same dimensions to maintain the same suspension travel and avoid a bind up. There are a number of different upgraded equalizer and shackle strap kits that have built in shock dampeners to provide a more comfortable ride quality and reduce wear and tear on the trailer's suspension and frame. Swapping out the hangers with longer ones can give your trailer more ground clearance between the frame and ground, but there are tolerances to how tall the hangers can be to handle the weight of the trailer and maintain stability.
The Tandem-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for Double-Eye Springs # APT3 you were looking at is just a generic kit that's been designed for 2,000lb to 7,000lb tandem axles. Its sizing will give you 3-1/2" or 3-3/4" clearance between trailer frame and axle depending on the axle diameter.
I've attached a few diagrams depicting how to measure these components below so that you can determine the best replacements for your trailer's suspension. I've also attached a a couple of our help articles below that can offer a bit more information about how everything works and show you with diagrams. If you have more questions please let me know.
(click to enlarge)
(click to enlarge)
(click to enlarge)
(click to enlarge)
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tandem-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for Double-Eye Springs - 1-1/2" Front/Rear, 2-1/2" Center
- Trailer Suspension Parts
- Hangers
- Suspension Kits
- Boat Trailer
- Camper
- Car Hauler
- Snowmobile Trailer
- Utility Trailer
- Double Eye Springs
- Tandem Axle
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: trailer leaf springs
- Search Results: dexter equalizer
- Search Results: trailer brakes
- Search Results: trailer suspension parts
- Shop: Dexter E-Z Flex Suspension Kit - Double-Eye Springs - Tandem Axle - 6,000 lbs
- Search Results: spring perch
- Search Results: equalizer
- Shop: Lippert Road Armor Shock-Absorbing Equalizer Kit - Tandem Axle - 3,500-8,000 lbs
- Search Results: lippert trailer suspension parts
- Article: How to Measure a Trailer Axle
- Video: Review of EMCO Trailer Leaf Springs - 4 Leaf Double Eye Spring 5000 lbs Trailer Axle - EM66RB
- Shop: Lippert U-Bolt and Nut Kit for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 2-3/8" Wide
- Shop: Lippert U-Bolt and Nut Kit for 2,200-lb Trailer Axles - 1-3/4" Wide
- Shop: U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb, Round Trailer Axles - 7" Long U-Bolts
- Shop: 5-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 6,000-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long
- Video: CE Smith Bunk-Style Guide-Ons for Boat Trailers Feature Review
- Video: Detailed Breakdown of the U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb, Round Trailer Axles
- Video: Review of TruRyde Trailer Leaf Springs - Double Eye Springs - TRU25FR
- Shop: Dexter E-Z Flex Suspension Kit - Double-Eye Springs - Tandem Axle - 8,000 lbs
- Q&A: How Do You Know When to Replace Shoes on Drum Trailer Brakes
- Video: Dexter E-Z Flex Suspension Kit Spec Review
- Q&A: Cushioned Equalizer Recommendation for Replacement for EQ356
- Video: Hands-On with the U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 3,500-lb, Round Trailer Axles
- Q&A: Will Taller Leaf Springs Lift My 2014 Hyper Lite Toy Hauler Enough to Protect the Water Tank?
- Video: E-Z Flex Equalizers Review
- Q&A: Replacement 25-1/4" Long 4-Leaf Leaf Spring for a Lippert 129745 Leaf Spring
- Q&A: How to Choose Correct Road Armor Equalizer Kit for 2021 Grand Design Travel Trailer
- Q&A: How To Measure Wet Bolts And Suspension Components On Tandem Axle RV
- Q&A: Are 5,200 lb Leaf Springs Rated Too High To Replace 3,500 lb Leaf Springs
- Article: Where to Position the Trailer Axle?
on Trailer Suspension Parts
