What is The Difference Between Having Trailer Axles Above or Below the Leaf Springs
Updated 09/17/2024 | Published 11/22/2015 >
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Does it matter if i mount the springs on top of the axle vs under. If not what is the difference in in function and safety
asked by: Trent
Helpful Expert Reply:
You can mount trailer axles above or below the leaf springs. The difference is just the amount of ground clearance that the trailer would end up having.
The biggest advantage with the spring below the axle (trailer will be lower) is that you would have a lower center of gravity.
The spring seats will need to be on the right side of the axle though when you go to install the new springs. Trailer axles have an arc to them so you can't just flip them over otherwise you would end up with terrible camber.
We do sell kits to move the axle above or below the 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.

Duke
9/17/2024
Thanks for the information, very helpful.

Product Page this Question was Asked From
Triple-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for Double-Eye Springs - 1-1/2" Front/Rear, 2-1/2" Center
- Trailer Suspension Parts
- Hangers
- Suspension Kits
- Boat Trailer
- Camper
- Car Hauler
- Snowmobile Trailer
- Utility Trailer
- Double Eye Springs
- Triple Axle
- etrailer
more information >
Continue Researching
- Search Results: trailer axles
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Search Results: trailer leaf springs
- Search Results: idler hub
- Search Results: trailer winch
- Search Results: boat trailer wiring
- Search Results: trailer hub
- Shop: Kenda Karrier KR35 ST215/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 14" Gunmetal Aluminum Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2
- Shop: Kenda Karrier KR35 ST175/80R13 LRD Radial Trailer Tire w/ 13" Aluminum AM03 Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: Trailer Axle Beam with Easy Grease Spindles - 95" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Video: etrailer 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring Complete Installation - Utility Trailer
- Shop: Kenda Karrier KR53 ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire with 15" Black Aluminum Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2
- Shop: Kenda Karrier KR35 ST185/80R13 LRD Radial Trailer Tire w/ 13" Black AM03 Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2
- Shop: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,000-lb Trailer Axles - 26" Long
- Video: Review of Kenda Trailer Tires and Wheels - Karrier KR53 ST205/75R15 Radial Black Aluminum - KE76JV
- Shop: Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes - Easy Grease - 6 on 5-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 95" Long - 5,200 lbs
- Video: Review of etrailer Trailer Leaf Springs - 4 Leaf Double Eye Spring 4000 lbs Trailer Axle - e22YR
- Video: Review of Kenda Trailer Tires and Wheels - Karrier KR35 ST205/75R15 Radial 15 Inch AM06 - KE47JV
- Video: Review of the Suspension Kit for Tandem-Axle Trailers
- Video: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,000-lb Trailer Axles Spec Review
- Video: Review of TruRyde Trailer Leaf Springs - Double Eye Springs - TRU85FR
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: Replacement Axle, Bearings, and Hubs for 2000 Nitro X TRL Boat Trailer
- Article: How to Accurately Measure Trailer Leaf Springs
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Q&A: Replacement Axle, Hubs, and Brakes for a ShorLandr Dual Axle Trailer
- Q&A: Do you Have Smaller Wheels and Tires for My Teardrop Camper so I can Easily Store in Garage?
- Article: Trailer Lighting Requirements
- Q&A: Weight Capacity of Dexter P-12 SLR SN: D5287869 Axle


Duke
9/17/2024
Define spring seat please.