Can Trailer Leaf Springs Lose Their Weight Capacity Over Time

Published 01/12/2015

Products Featured in This Question

3-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 2,500-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/8" Long

(2252)

$38.75

etrailer Rust-Resistant 4-Leaf Double Eye Spring for 5K Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long - Dacromet

(479)

$84.28

4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long

(2252)

$52.83

Question:

I recently purchased a 2001 bass boat and have noticed when I hit bumps in the road the tires rub the fenders. It is a single axle trailer and has a 5 pack double eye spring that is 25 1/4in from eye to eye. Ive checked and the 215/75/14 tires are the right size for this trailer. My question is, can springs loose their spring? P.S. Ive checked the springs and mounting hardware and everything seems to be in good shape. Thanks.

asked by: Ryan

Expert Reply:

Springs can wear out over time and lose ability to support the same amount of weight they once were capable of. It sounds like you are in need of a new set of springs on your trailer.

You will need to determine what weight capacity springs you will need. The same plate that told you what tire size was recommended for the trailer should also have the axle capacity. The amount of springs doesn't necessarily indicate the capacity of the spring. If you need a 2,500 lb axle spring you would want # e66SR. 3,500 lb capacity would be # e54SR, 4,800 lb would require # e28SR.

expert reply by: Jameson C