How to Determine Trailer Leaf Spring Hanger Spacing

Updated 05/21/2018 | Published 05/18/2018

Question:

I am building a 14ft tandem axle trailer with 3inch 5k axles, I purchased 23 1/8 springs and 2 3/8 hangers. My equalizers are 5inch and straight, not arched. What should my hanger spacing be?

asked by: Jeff R

Expert Reply:

You can refer to the linked articles on trailer axle spacing and leaf spring suspensions to help you determine where to position your spring hangers on your tandem axle trailer build. Hanger spacing depends on axle placement and axle placement should be determined based on having the trailer's tongue weight in the appropriate 10- to 15-% range.

As you work out the design for the trailer, it is best to have the layout of the trailer finalized before placing the axles. This will ensure that the axles are placed in the correct spots to accommodate any permanent weight on the trailer, such as a toolbox.

You will need to mock up the placement of the springs, equalizers and hangers to be sure but roughly speaking with 23-1/8-inch-long springs and 5-inch equalizers your front hanger to center hanger spacing will be somewhere near 26-inches.

expert reply by: Adam R