How to Order The Correct Slipper Springs For A 1970s Harding Boat Trailer

Updated 01/18/2011 | Published 01/16/2011

Question:

I purchased Harding boat trailer made in 1970s. Suspension springs rusty, flattened out.Springs have eye on one end. flat on other end. What length does new spring need to be? Old spring flattened measures 28 from center of eyebolt toother tip end. Thanks

asked by: Wm M

Expert Reply:

The springs you have on your boat trailer are called slipper springs. One end of the spring has an eye and the other is an arched, open end. The front eye of the spring is attached to a front hangar on the trailer and the slipper end is inserted into a rear hangar.

To get the correct slipper spring for your trailer you will need to know the number of leaves, the width of the spring, the length of the spring, and the weight rating of the axle on your trailer. The 2-Leaf Slipper Spring for 1,000-lb Trailer Axles, part # SP-177275, you have referenced is a 2-leaf spring for a 1,000 lb. axle. It is 1-3/4 inches wide and 24-1/4 inches long.

You will want to check the weight rating that is on your trailer axle. It should be on a tag on the axle or stamped on the axle. Check the number of leaves on the old spring and measure the width of the spring. Also, if you measure on your trailer the distance from the front hangar eye hole to the rear hangar this will give you the length you will need to get the correct spring.

I am sending a link to a FAQ page on slipper spring trailer suspension and a link to a page with the measurements on all of our slipper springs. This should help you decide the correct slipper spring you will need.

expert reply by: Jeff D