How to Choose Replacement Leaf Springs for Boat Trailer

Updated 09/27/2017 | Published 09/26/2017

Question:

I need to replace the springs on my boat trailer. My problem is the hanger spacing, it is 24 5/8 center to center. will it be ok to use 25 1/4 inch eye to eye springs for this, I really dont want to relocate the hangers. This trailer was professionally built by a major manufacturer, Ill not mention the name. Im looking at the 5 leaf, 25 1/4 eye to eye, 3000# springs you offer.

asked by: Jerry P

Expert Reply:

You will probably not need to move your spring hangers to install new leaf springs. What happens when a spring is well-worn is that it will become longer, by as much as 3/4-inch. To pick out your new leaf springs you will want to remove one completely so that there is no tension on it; then measure its eye-to-eye dimension and select a new spring based on that and the axle weight rating.

Also keep in mind that the shackle straps that connect the springs to the hangers are available in many lengths. It is possible in some cases when a replacement spring of the exact same size is not available to simply use longer shackle straps.

The linked page displays all of our double-eye leaf springs. Select your axle rating by clicking on the appropriate weight figure and you'll then see the leaf springs rated for that weight. Then click on the nearest length dimension to yours.

You can refer to the linked article on trailer suspensions for more on leaf spring replacement.

expert reply by: Adam R