Should Shackle Straps Angle Towards the Axles or Away From Them

Published 10/13/2011

Question:

I have a custom made tandem axle trailer on which the shackle straps are angled slightly towards the center hanger vs towards the axle. Is this dangerous? If wrong, why is this wrong? I am working on finding the manufacturers recommended hanger spacing but until then I want to see if this is safe to use. Thanks

asked by: Curtis N

Expert Reply:

In order for your trailer suspension to function properly you will want the angle of the shackle strap to be towards the axle so that as the leaf spring compresses and expands it will have somewhere it can go. Otherwise, you will not get the optimum performance from your trailer suspension. It may not be super dangerous, but if the suspension is not operating properly you could cause premature failure which might endanger yourself and other motorists. Check out the picture I attached that shows the proper angle of a shackle strap.

I would recommend you use the hanger spacing that the manufacturer of your trailer recommends.

I attached an FAQ article on trailer suspension for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jameson C