Dimensions of Hangers and Equalizers on Tandem Axle Suspension on 16-Ft Trailer

Question

Question:

Im rebuilding my trailer and I think who ever built it had no idea what they were doing when it came to mounting all the suspension. Was wondering if you could help me choose the right equalizer and shackle? Using your tandem axle picture for measurements: A- 30 1/4 front hanger to center B- 29 7/8 Center to rear hanger C- 36 D- 6 1/2 Front and rear hangers are 1 3/8 tall Center hanger is 3 1/4 tall axle is 2 3/8 round 3500lbs leaf springs are 25 1/2 long, 1 3/4 wide double eye with 4 leaves Now the equalizer that is in there is 2 7/8 tall, 7 3/4 long with 9/16 dia. on center hole and the shackles are 2 3/4 long What I found to be strange is the A and B measurements, the height combination of the hangers, the shackle lengths and they had the shackles facing down towards the ground instead of up towards the frame. Does this sound ok? Thanks

asked by: Marc W

0

Expert Reply:

Front and rear springs hangers should be equally spaced around the center hanger and spring equalizer. It may be that your trailer was modified (if not originally built) with a different height center hanger and that might be how the spacing became how it is. Also, it may be that at some point the shackle straps were changed to a different length - we offer three different lengths: 2-1/4-inch, 2-5/8-inch and 3-1/8-inch. On a tandem axle trailer the 2-5/8-inch length is most common.

It is not unusual for shackle straps to flip around when the trailer is not under load. The face-up position for the strap will usually return once you load the trailer with some weight and pull it to actuate the suspension. This in itself is not a problem. But shackle straps are also the most likely part of the system to wear out from use. They carry the weight of the trailer and also have to deal with constant movement. A worn strap may develop oval holes from the wear and this can change the alignment of the rest of the system. I suggest you check your shackle straps for wear and replace as needed.

You may also care to review the linked article for more on trailer suspensions.

expert reply by: Adam R

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Answer 1

Even though the measurements that you have are slightly shorter than what is on the Equa-Flex Cushioned Equalizers #LC279687 that you referenced, it will be okay to replace your current equalizers with this part. You will simply want to use shorter…

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Answer 2

Thank you for providing the specs for the suspension components that you already have. Correct hanger spacing really depends on the components being used such as springs, hangers and equalizers. Most of the hanger spacing dimensions that we have are…

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Answer 3

The easiest way to determine the correct replacement parts for your trailer's suspension is by simply measuring its existing components. Looking at one of your current equalizers, you will want to measure from the center of the front hole to the…

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Answer 4

Thank you for all of the details in your question. It looks like you have a faulty ground or some corrosion in one of your connectors. On a trailer the functions for your turn signals are also tied into the brake lights so if your right turn signal…

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Answer 5

You can certainly upgrade to heavier duty leaf springs, but you'll still be limited to the capacity of the axles, unless you replace the axles as well. I think the best option is to go with the same capacity leaf springs, but then add helper…

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Answer 6

Unfortunately, we do not sell spindle repair sleeves. However, the best way to repair a pitted spindle is to replace the whole spindle or axle. If you are interested in replacing your spindle, you can give me the spindle product number, or I will…

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Answer 7

In order to raise the suspension on your Keystone Outback you have two options, the Tandem Axle Lift Kit part #RR23QX which lifts the trailer about 2-1/4" or the Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit part #K71-385-00 which lifts the…

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Answer 8

The etrailer.com Self-Adjusting Brakes #AKEBRK-35-SA will replace both brakes on an axle, but do not come with the hubs. That being said, if the hubs are in good condition, they will not need to be replaced. When you remove the hub, you will need to…

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Answer 9

Trailer manufacturers don't usually keep a record of parts like these that they install at the factory, so I cannot be sure as to the exact length of the shackle strap that would have come originally on your trailer. With this in mind, a 3-1/8…

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Answer 10

To determine the location for the front and rear hangers on your tandem axle trailer you will first need to make sure that you have the correct center point for your equalizer hanger. The center point of your equalizer hanger needs to be located…

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Answer 11

We sure do! What you're looking for is the Front/Center/Rear Hanger for Double-Eye Springs - 4-1/4" Tall #E4139 which is designed for 1-3/4" wide springs and the standard 9/16" diameter bolt. Attached is a review video for you to…

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Answer 12

We don't have any way of knowing the length of leaf spring on any trailer, so to determine if the 7,000 lb #e64SR is correct, you'll need to measure yours from center eye to center eye. When doing that, keep in mind that leaf springs flatten…

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Dimensions of Hangers and Equalizers on Tandem Axle Suspension on 16-Ft Trailer

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