Should There Be Play Between the Leaf Spring Eye Bushing and Shackle Bolt on a Trailer

Updated 07/29/2025 | Published 05/13/2015

Question:

My question is about the clearance after I have installed the equalizer and then attach the links to the springs eyelets. I have play as you move the bolt back and forth in the bushing of about 1/16 of a inch. Should the bolt connecting the two links to the spring and the equalizer be tight of with some play? Thanks,

asked by: James C

Expert Reply:

If there is a tiny bit of play in suspension components that are designed to move you would be fine. 1/16 of an inch isn't very much, and as long as you torqued everything down to spec you would be good to go.

Ideally we just don't want it torqued down so much that the suspension can't move. The bolts should be snug, but not so snug that the suspension binds up.

If your shackle bolt were tight enough to prevent movement in the setup they eventually would wear themselves down to the point that they would start moving.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Jacob

7/29/2025

Purchased 1 3/4” spring kit 3500lb . Lots of play between spring and bracket. Measured almost 1/4. Is this normal? Should I place washers on each side to tighten it up? Otherwise spring can move almost 1/4 inch in y direction (x forward) ( z up/down)

Jameson C.

7/29/2025

@Jacob A washer isn't generally used or needed but 1/4 of an inch is quite a bit. Were the older springs 2 inches wide?

Jacob

7/29/2025

@JamesonC it’s a kit for 1 3/4 springs — 2” wouldn’t fit by about 1/16”. So it’s the correct hanger, just surprised that there 3/16” play. Should I add washers to keep it centered? Weird. It’s a complete kit …