How to Measure Shackle Straps for an 18 Foot Tandem Axle Trailer

Updated 03/18/2010 | Published 03/17/2010

Question:

What size shackle link is needed for 18ft. tandem trailer?

asked by: Ron

Expert Reply:

You will have to do some measuring. Take a look at our Double-Eye Trailer Suspension article (see link). I have also linked a picture of a shackle link showing where to measure.

Measurements for replacement

1) Measure current shackle from center of one eye to center of the other eye
2) You can also often determine the shackle length from the type of suspension system you have

This section is about half way down the page and is titled Shackle Straps. The following section, Suspension Bolts, might be helpful as well, should you need to replace the bolts or determine diameter of the shackle straps on your trailer.

There are only three sizes of shackle straps: 2-1/4 inch, 2-5/8 inch, and 3-1/8 inch.

expert reply by: Michael H