Why Would Trailer Axle Shackles Flip Wrong Direction When Trailer is Unloaded
Updated 04/18/2024 | Published 03/06/2019
Question:
how come on my tandem axle trailer when it is empty the rear shackle flips over on both sides
asked by: Chris M
Expert Reply:
If the shackles are flipping the wrong direction frequently that typically means the leaf springs are too short, the hanger spacing is too big, or the shackles are too short. Most of the time it's somebody changed leaf springs and just went with replacements that are too short and now the shackle angle is too flat when unloaded and they easily flip over bumps. So basically the solution is to get the shackles at more of a vertical angle. You can do this by moving the hangers closer, installing longer springs (I'd need to know the capacity and length you currently have), long equalizers, or longer shackles.
I attached a link to a help article on trailer suspension for you to check out as well.
Erick
4/17/2024
Great article you wrote. I couldn’t find the link for trailer suspensions. I just bought a used trailer and the shackles keep flipping down on rear axle. I thought my truck hitch was too high so I lowered it since mine is adjustable. I would imagine it would not due this with weight on the trailer. Your thoughts please l…
Jameson C.
4/18/2024
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curved Equalizer for 1-3/4" Wide Double-Eye Springs - 7-3/4" Long - 9/16" Center Hole
- Trailer Suspension Parts
- Standard Equalizer
- Camper
- Car Hauler
- Utility Trailer
- Double Eye Springs
- 7-3/4 Inch Long
- Tandem Axle
- Triple Axle
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: l44649
- Search Results: bk4~150
- Search Results: hopkins 40975
- Search Results: condor
- Search Results: d~ring
- Search Results: axle grease
- Search Results: fender backing
- Video: Review of Tie Down Trailer Fenders - No Step - TD75VR
- Shop: Timken Bearing Kit for Lippert, Dexter, and AL-KO Axles - 3,500 lb with #84 Spindle
- Shop: Dexter Bearing Kit, 14125A/ 25580 Bearings, 10-36 Seal
- Shop: Bearing Kit, LM67048/25580 Bearings, 10-36 Seal
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: Atlas IV Double-Acting Hydraulic Trailer Jack - 26" Lift - 10,000 lbs - Bolt-On
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Video: Checking Out the Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3,500-lb E-Z Lube Axles
- Shop: 7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket w/ Mounting Bracket - Vehicle End
- Shop: Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3,500-lb Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 5 - Pre Greased
- Shop: Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3,500-lb E-Z Lube Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 4-3/4
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Article: Double-Eye Trailer Suspension System Review
- Q&A: Are Safety Chains Required When Using Curt Crosswing Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Shop: Floor Mats
- Video: Feature Review Tandem Axle Trailer Fenders
- Article: Trailer Lighting Requirements
- Article: How to Measure a Trailer Axle
- Video: Review of EcoHitch Eclipse Magnetic Mounting Bracket 4 Way Flat - 306-X6019
- Video: All About the Timbren Front Suspension Enhancement System-TFF350SDC
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Video: Curved Equalizer for 1-3/4" Wide Double-Eye Springs Review
on Trailer Suspension Parts
Wade D.
7/8/2020
I inherited a small tandem axle trailer 5’x12’ and the shackles had flipped. I purchased new bushings,shackles, & mounting hardware and replaced them. But the trailer still has a distance between tire tread and edge of fender of 6”. How can I lower the trailer safely?