Increasing Length of Suspension Shackle Strap When Upgrading Trailer Suspension
Updated 03/09/2016 | Published 03/08/2016
Question:
My trailer currently uses 2inch shackles. Im looking at doing an axle/spring/wheel/tire upgrade to change the single axle 3500 lbs trailer to a 5000 lbs single axle trailer. I wont be replacing the spring hangers. Im wondering though what difference would there be for me in using either the 2inch sized shackle straps that my trailer currently uses vs the 3-1/4inch straps used in this kit. I understand that in this kit the straps are thicker, but other than that what differences would there be here? Is there a reason for me to get a new 2inch straps or will the 3-1/4inch straps work just as well? For reference, the springs Im using and the ones I will be using are 25.25inch double eye leaf springs. Ill be going from a 4 leaf to a 5 leaf variety.
asked by: Adrian G
Expert Reply:
If you're not changing the spacing of the spring hangers and you're using leaf springs that are the same length (just a greater capacity) than your current springs, you would not want to change the length of your shackle straps. A longer strap would add more play into the system, which could cause the back of the leaf spring to bang into the underside of the trailer. You'll want to continue using a 2 inch shackle straps.
You're increasing the capacity of the axle, suspension, wheels and tires but you'll want to make sure the rest of the trailer's structure (like the coupler) is capable of handling the increased load.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Heavy Duty Suspension Upgrade Kit for Single Axle Trailers -3-1/8" Shackle Straps
- Trailer Suspension Parts
- Suspension Kits
- Boat Trailer
- Snowmobile Trailer
- Double Eye Springs
- Single Axle
- Dexter
more information >
Continue Researching
- Shop: Dexter Heavy Duty Suspension Upgrade Kit for Single Axle Trailers -3-1/8" Shackle Straps
- Shop: Replacement Wet Shoulder Bolt - Equa-Flex Tandem Axle Suspension - 9/16" x 3-3/8" - Qty 1
- Article: 5 Tell-Tale Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Trailer’s Leaf Springs
- Q&A: Recommended Shackle Straps and Hangers for a Single Axle Trailer
- Q&A: What Are The Dimensions Of The Dexter Heavy Duty Suspension Upgrade Kit Part # K71-358-00
- Q&A: How to Measure Replacement Shackles for Single Axle Trailer
- Q&A: Replacement Hangers, Wet Bolts, And Shackles for Single Axle Trailer
- Q&A: Can You Use Longer Shackle Straps To Raise Ride Height Of Trailer?
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Video: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags with Easy Mount Compressor Feature Breakdown
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Q&A: Best Suspension Upgrade for 33" Tandem Axles: Road Armor vs Dexter EZ Flex for Ember 22ETS
- Video: A Look at the Power Mountain Tallboy 6 Ton Off-Road Bottle Jack with a Military Cargo Trailer
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Shop: Power Mountain Tallboy Off-Road Bottle Jack - 8-1/2" to 37-3/4" Lift - 6 Tons
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: etrailer Anti-Rattle Hitch Collar for 2" Hitch Receivers
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Video: Measuring To Choose The Right Trailer Axle
- Search Results: trailer jack
on Trailer Suspension Parts
