Differences Between Single and 5-Leaf Leaf Springs for 6000 Lb Rated Trailer Axle

Published 03/05/2020

Products Featured in This Question

1-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 6,000-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long

(2043)

$30.77

5-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 6,000-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long

(2042)

$72.33

Question:

My trailer a modified popup now on the heavier side as popups go has a single underslung axle. Currently the springs on one side have worn and the trailer is sagging about 1inch on that side. I replaced the springs, axle, etc a few years ago to get to a 5k rating. The axle is a 6k axle but I put on 25-1/4, 2500 lbs, 4-leaf springs, unfortunately not purchased through your site. Im likely overloading it or running it near the load limit most of the time, so Im going to replace them with 3k lbs springs. Im looking at either your 5 leaf spring, e34SR, or the single leaf, e46SR. I understand theres a thickness difference, which wouldnt matter on an underslung axle, as well as the single leaf spring possibly having a nib for assisting with initial alignment of the u-bolt tie plate. Ive also read that bolts are a little loose in the single leaf spring, leading me to think that it would need a bushing, but unsure of the size for this. Can you make a suggestion for a bushing to make a better fit for the step wet bolts 34007-187-00 or the bolts in the Dexter kit 018-026-05? Is there any other differences that I should be aware of between the two springs? Is one more likely to fail loose the curve, not break in half than the other?

asked by: Adrian G

Expert Reply:

The single leaf # e46SR is designed for use with a mobile home axle, which is intended to be a one-time use item, so I'd wholeheartedly recommend going with the other option, part # e34SR which is designed for use on a trailer that's designed to be used over a span of years. You'll be much happier with its performance.

We don't offer a bushing that will work in the single leaf spring, and that's entirely a function of the one-use nature that type of axle is designed for.

Also, keep in mind that increasing the suspension and axle won't necessarily increase the real-world capacity of the pop-up you have. What you've beefed up has indeed gone a long way, but be aware that parts like the trailer frame, the coupler, and other components also carry load ratings.

expert reply by: Mike L