Can Washers Be Used To Fit 1-3/4 Wide Leaf Springs In a 2 Inch Hanger On An Old Camper

Updated 09/05/2019 | Published 09/04/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Step Wet Bolt for 1-3/4" Double Eye Springs

(80)

$21.98

Single-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for Double-Eye Springs - 3-1/4" Front, 1-1/4" Rear

(379)

$51.83

Question:

OK, I have a 1970 Trotwood Lark II camper, with what appears to be a 3500 lb axle, the trailer box is only 10x7foot and the trailer factory specd at 1365 lbs. It has 4 leaf springs, and of course they are 2inch wide. The springs seam to be a little fatigued but do work fine, as I use the camper all the time. I am thinking about maybe changing the springs to new ones and I can forget finding 2inch replacements, I can, from my limited past experience use 1 3/4inch springs with hardened steal washers to take up the space. I am trying to avoid having to have new hanger welded on, but that may be the best option. My other problem is, that Im concerned that new springs will raise the trailer and I only have about an inch to spare and the trailer fit in my garage 8foot door height. I guess I could use slightly shorter shackle traps if needed. So, I guess Im asking for thoughts! thanks,

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

Its sounds like you are pretty well on track for what is needed to replace the leaf springs on your trailer. That said, there are two different types of leaf springs; slipper and double eye. If the width of your existing leaf springs are 2" then that is synonymous with slipper springs which we do have direct replacements for. I can't really recommend you install washers to take up space for using 1-3/4" wide double eye springs but this is possible. That said, the best option would be new hangers like the Single-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit part # APS4 if you have double eye springs.

In regards to the number of leaves, this won't matter so long as you meet capacity. If you go with an option that has more leaves in the stack then this will raise the trailer but only marginally and I don't think you will gain an inch even with them being stiffer as well.

Please note, the leaf springs need to be measured while unloaded in order to find the proper replacement. If you can give me this measurement along with the type (slipper or double eye) then I can recommend some options for you but otherwise you can choose from our selection which is attached for you below.

expert reply by: Conner L