Can Unique Leaf Springs be Replaced on a Very Old Trailer

Updated 05/20/2015 | Published 05/18/2015

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2331)

$36.13

U-Bolt Plate for 1-3/4" Square Trailer Axles with 1-3/4" Wide Springs

(286)

$24.43

Replacement U-Bolt with Nuts for 1-3/4" Wide, Square Trailer Axles - 9/16" Diameter

(196)

$13.02

Single-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for Double-Eye Springs - 1-1/2" Front, 7/8" Rear

(136)

$50.76

Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with EZ-Lube Spindles - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs

(814)

$224.30

Question:

I am trying to refurbish a utility trailer my grandfather had. I believe it used to be a boat trailer he converted. The only stamped information I can find on the entire trailer is on the hubs. They are HADCO 394. The axle is 1 3/4inch square solid steel and appears to be 57inch long. The springs that are on there now are something Ive never seen. They are inverted half springs that bolt onto brackets that are welded to the axle. I have attached pictures. Im hoping you have a solution that will allow me to use a more traditional leaf spring. I know next to nothing about any of this stuff so any help you can provide would be much appreciated.

asked by: Devlin C

Expert Reply:

I believe the hubs are for 2,000 or 2,200 pound agricultural axles which is why the springs look so different. These hubs are designed for very low speed applications (5 to 10 miles per hour according to HADCO) so if you plan on going faster than that you will need to look at replacing the axle and hubs.

You could use 2 of spring # e66SR. Each spring has a capacity of 1,250 pounds. If a new hanger kit is needed you can use # APS1. When used with spring e66SR the center to center distance between the hangers should be approximately 24-7/8 inches. For u-bolts use # 175130 and for a u-bolt plate use # 116308.

The easiest solution and really the best solution is to replace the axle. The benefit is that you will have all new and modern parts that are easily replaceable. Axles do not cost as much as you might think and you can get them with or without hubs and brakes. I have included a link to our axle main page. We carry the most common sizes so you have to look at the measurements from hub face to hub face and from spring seat center to spring seat center.

Take a look at # T3584F-EZ-8974 as an example. I have included a picture showing its measurements.

If you do not see one that fits your needs then you can order one to your specifications from a local tractor or trailer supply store.