Trailer Suspension Parts Needed to Increase Trailer Capacity from 7000 to 10000 lbs Gross Weight

Updated 04/04/2020 | Published 02/13/2012

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Rust-Resistant 4-Leaf Double Eye Spring for 5K Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long - Dacromet

(424)

$79.80

Tandem-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for Double Eye Springs - 3-1/4" Tall Front/Center/Rear

(680)

$83.94

3-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 23-1/8" Long

(2042)

$36.79

Question:

It is a 2011 hurricane cargo trailer 24x8.5x7.5 tongue is rated at 15000# with a 6 inch I beam framer with 2 3500 lbs. axles I would like to make them 5000 # the spring length is 28 would it be easier to just add helper springs then swap out the axles or do I have to change out the springs completely.

asked by: Roger H

Expert Reply:

Your best bet for upgrading the suspension on your trailer with 5,000 lb axles is to change out the springs from 1,750 lb capacity each to at least 2500 lb capacity each. Helper springs would not increase the capacity of your original suspension, they are designed to help your suspension handle loads up to the rated capacity of the suspension.

If your trailer suspension is built with double eye springs you will need to measure the springs with no load on them from the spring eye center to spring eye center. If your measurement is 23-1/8 inches like the 3-Leaf Double-Eye Spring, # e59SR, there is not a 2,500 lb spring available and you would need to remove the spring hangers and relocate them to accept a longer spring.

The springs we currently carry that would be compatible with a 5,000 lb axle are the 4-Leaf Double Eye Spring for 5,000 Pound Trailer Axles, 25-1/4 Inches Long # e28SR.

You would then need to select a Tandem-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit, like part # APT5, to properly install the new springs. The kit you select will need to have adequate spacing for the wheels and tires you will be using.

You should also check the weight rating of the wheels and tires that are on your trailer to be sure that they are compatible with the 5,000 lb weight capacity of the axle you plan on using.

If you would like to send me your spring eye measurement, the measurement from the center of the axle to the bottom of the trailer frame, the wheel and tire size you have or will be using, the current axle diameter, and any other information that may help, I can recommend a setup for you including springs, U-bolts, U-bolt plates, shackle straps, equalizers, spring hangers, and shackle bolts.

I added a drawing that I did showing all of the suspension components of a tandem axle trailer that you may find helpful for measuring and selecting the correct parts. You should also have a qualified trailer builder check your trailer frame to be sure that the frame will be capable of carrying the loads you plan to haul.