How to Gain Trailer Ground Clearance
Published 05/15/2015
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Can the shackles on a 16 utility trailer be reversed to give it more ground clearance? Thanks
asked by: Dan C
Expert Reply:
There are ways to increase ground clearance on a trailer, but you can't flip the shackles to do that.
You can do this by moving the axles from being above the leaf springs to below the leaf springs.
The diameter of your trailer axle will determine the size of the parts that you will need to order. If your axle is 3 inches diameter, the Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit, # K71-385-00, would be a great choice and if your axle is 2-3/8 inch diameter you could use the Over-Under Kit, # K71-384-00. These kits can be installed without welding but the manufacturer strongly recommends having the new spring seat tacked in place on the other side of the trailer axle.
Some refer to this process as "flipping the axles," but since axle has a slight bow to it you can't just flip them and reinstall them under the springs using the same spring seats. You have to install new spring seats on the opposite side of the axle so that it can be moved below the spring.
If you do think raising the trailer in the back is the way to go then you may be able to use an over/under conversion kit if:
The trailer leaf spring stack is currently mounted under the axles
The trailer uses double-eye springs
And the trailer has 2-3/8 inch or 3 inch diameter round axles
If you cannot use an over/under conversion kit then the only other way to raise the height of the trailer is to have the old suspension hangers cut off and new, taller ones welded on by a qualified professional welder. I have included a link to the hanger main page for you.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
- Trailer Suspension Parts
- Shackle Links
- Camper
- Car Hauler
- Utility Trailer
- 3-1/2 Inch Long
- TruRyde
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: dexter trailer suspension parts
- Search Results: weight distribution hitch
- Shop: Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit
- Shop: Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit
- Shop: MORryde 10" Shock Absorbing Equalizers for Tandem Axle Trailers w/ 42" Wheelbase - 8K
- Shop: Dexter E-Z Flex Equalizer Kit - Double-Eye Springs - Tandem Axle - 6,000 lbs
- Shop: MORryde Rubber Equalizers for Tandem Axle Trailers - 33" Wheelbase - 8K
- Video: All You Need to Know About the Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit
- Search Results: drop down hitch
- Article: The Best Electric Trailer Jacks of 2025
- Video: Complete Breakdown of the Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit
- Video: Dexter E-Z Flex Equalizer Kit Review
- Search Results: e2 hitch
- Search Results: spring clip
- Search Results: weight distribution hitch accessories and parts
- Search Results: e2 weight distribution hitch
- Shop: E-Z Flex Equalizers - Double-Eye Springs - Tandem Axle - 8,000 lbs - Qty 2
- Shop: Terran Industries Tandem-Axle Center Hanger Kit for Double Eye Springs - 4-1/4" Tall Middle
- Video: Breaking Down the Convert-A-Ball Cushioned Weight Distribution Shank for 2" Hitches
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: What Is The Maximum Drop For The Fastway e2 Weight Distribution Shank FA92-02-4315
- Video: Review of Advent Air Electric Heat Strip RV Air Conditioner - ADV34QR
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: Best Suspension Upgrade for 33" Tandem Axles: Road Armor vs Dexter EZ Flex for Ember 22ETS
on Trailer Suspension Parts
