Suspension System Recommendation for an Off-Road Tear Trailer that is Breaking Leaf Springs

Updated 04/08/2016 | Published 04/06/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension - Heavy Duty - Long Spindle w/ No Drop - 5 Bolt - 3.5K

(164)

$1276.61

Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension - Heavy Duty - Long Spindle - 4" Lift - 5 Bolt - 3.5K

(164)

$1305.78

Question:

I built an offroad tear trailer and used a dexter 3,500lbs axle and a 3 leaf spring 3,500lbs combined capacity, 25 1/4 x1 3/4 x 3. It also has 35inch tires at a 95lbs each that may be complicating things. The trailer weighs 1,500lbs with tires empty and about 2,000lbs loaded. I have now snapped two different leaf springs while traveling on washboard roads. I dont drive to fast, but sometimes try to do 25mph to get that harmonic resonance thing going. Both broke at the clip on different trips while only doing about 10 mph. I have also deflated my tires to 20 lbs of pressure which seem to act as suspension without bouncing my trailer to much. I am now thinking about replacing them with your single axle leaf spring rated at 6,000 lbs but I am afraid I will beat up my trailer. I would really appreciate your opinion and suggestions.

asked by: Chris K

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you, but the leaf springs we sell aren't rated for off-road use. That's why you are snapping springs. Off-road conditions are just too rough for trailer springs designed for on-road use.

Instead you would want the Timbren Heavy-Duty Axle-Less Trailer Suspension - 4" Lift Spindle - for Off-Road Tires # ASR35HDS02 to add a 4 inch lift, or part # ASR35HDS01 for a straight axle.

Both of these are designed for what you are doing and are made to accommodate wider tires like what you have. There's no leaf spring to break with these kits either. Your hubs should slip right on the spindles of this kit as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C