How to Measure Trailer Leaf Spring to Find Correct Replacement

Question

Question:

How do I measure the length of utility trailer springs, straight across or along the curve? The ones on there now measure 32 1/2 inch along the curvature from the center of one bolt hole to the center of the other bolt hole.

asked by: Cliff C

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

To correctly measure a leaf spring, you'll want to jack the trailer up on jack stands so the axle is hanging freely, then measure directly across from the center of one spring eye to the other, as shown in the provided diagram. The height of the spring and the distance from the spring eye to the center of the spring can also be helpful in finding the correct replacement.

To ensure you're getting the correct leaf springs, you'll also need to know the capacity of your axle. If you can find that information on the axle itself, we can make a pretty good guesstimate if you can provide as much as the following information as possible:

Axle diameter (or circumference divided by 3.14)

If the axle is 1 to 1-1/2 inches in diameter, it's likely a 1000 lb axle
2-3/8 in diameter, 3500 lb axle
3 inches in diameter, 6000-7200 lb axle
3-1/2 inches, 8000 lb axle
4 inches, 9000 axle
5 or more, 10000 lb axle

Knowing the wheel bearing reference numbers or the wheel's bolt pattern will also be a good clue to the axle capacity.

expert reply by: Mike L

1

click to enlarge

Tim K.

7/30/2020

I've done measurements. 25 from eye to eye. 1and 3/4. Wide 8 lugs 7 springs. It's a 40fr toy hauler Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. No one and here has anything like that

Chris R.

8/10/2020

We do have some leaf springs available that closely match the length you measured. It's important to keep in mind that leaf springs will stretch a bit over time, so you're likely wanting a new set that's just a little shorter in length. A 24-7/8" long set like # SP-222275, which is designed for 5,300 pound axles, would work great. If you can tell me what capacity your axles are I will be happy to verify this will work or suggest an alternate replacement.

Randy W.

5/6/2021

@ChrisR Dear Chris R I have a 1988 prowler lynx 18' dual axle travel trailer. It has 3 leaf leaf springs the weight is 2880. The sticker on the axle says 2500 lbs. can not find the size anywhere for our camper due you have any idea.

Jon G.

5/6/2021

@RandyW If you can get me the dimensions like what Mike talks about in his answer above I can see if we have something for you. Unfortunately we don't have a way to see what initially came on your trailer.

See All (8) Replies to Tim K. ∨

Answer 1

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Answer 2

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Answer 3

Trailer leaf springs can grow longer after many years of use. A new springs that measures 25-1/4-inches long like #e57SR could easily measure 25-1/2-inches after years in service on a trailer. Springs can lengthen as much as 3/4 of an inch. If your…

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Answer 4

Hey, Lance. The direction the springs are in doesn't matter. They can be to the front or to the rear of the axle and will perform the same either way. What kind of trailer are you working on?

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Answer 5

Your axle has dimensions that we don't have any direct leaf spring style axles for but we do have a Timbren axle less kit like the part #ASR3500S05 which is a 3,500 lb axle solution. This is similar to a torsion setup but uses a rubber spring and…

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Answer 6

I would be happy to help! When measuring for new leaf springs you need to either take them off of the trailer, or jack up the side of the trailer so that the axle is not carrying any weight. Based on the pictures of the leaf springs on your 2017…

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Answer 7

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Answer 8

There is no exact way to determine the leaf spring length. The best way to determine the length for a replacement is by measuring the existing leaf springs. The hanger distance and shackle length can help you get a good idea, but you're looking…

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Answer 9

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Answer 10

I don't know what axle your trailer uses either unfortunately but if you can take a bit of time to measure the exact spring center length, hub face length, and note the weight capacity on the axle tag you can determine fit for yourself matching…

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Answer 11

A drop axle certainly can make it tough to reach the star wheel adjuster on a drum brake. The adjuster spoon tool we offer #W80630 has a 90-degree bend that will often let you get access to the adjuster even on a drop axle. Essentially you will need…

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Answer 12

If you have 3,500 lb axles the best choice would be 3,500 lb springs so that you could take advantage of the full axle capacity (assuming the trailer is rated similarly). The #e54SR is a great choice for you as it is a 3,500 lb axle leaf spring.

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How to Measure Trailer Leaf Spring to Find Correct Replacement

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