Troubleshooting Elongated Hanger Bolt Holes in Tandem Leaf Spring Suspension

Updated 06/24/2015 | Published 06/22/2015

Question:

I am replacing the leaf spring suspension on my 10LP Big Tex dump trailer. The original springs eye to eye are 1-3/4 inch wide yet the welded on hangers are 2 inch inside width. The back hanger bolt holes for the rear springs on both sides was extremely elongated worn. I plug welded the elongated holes and drilled them out to 9/16 inch. Did this elongation happen because the spring moves that extra 1/4 inch inside the hanger? As far as I know this is the original set up

asked by: Cliff A

Expert Reply:

Sounds like you are experiencing a lot of movement in your suspension which is causing the elongation of the back hanger bolt holes. Over time this is going to happen with normal wear, but most likely the wider hangers and narrower springs are speeding up the process. Your best bet is to put in properly sized springs or properly sized hangers.

expert reply by: Chris O