Can 3,500 lb Leaf Springs be Used on Trailer With 2,700 lb GVWR

Question:

I am going to replace both of the boat trailer leaf springs soon. I bought it used. The trailer is original, but I don’t know if the axle/springs are original. My axle is 2-3/8” in diameter but the springs are 3 leafs. I feel like the 3 leaf is under rated and I would like to put 4 leaf 3000 lb system on it. The vin says it’s empty weight is 600lbs with gross weight of 2700lbs. Would I be ok installing a 4 spring 3k system? Thanks

asked by: Russ

Helpful Expert Reply:

Since you have a 2-3/8 inch diameter axle, your axle is rated for 3,500 lbs, and you can use leaf springs rated for 3,500 lbs even with a trailer that has a 2,700 lb GVWR, though the ride might be a bit rough with heavier-rated springs. The number of leaves isn't as important as the rating, though, as there are 3-leaf and 4-leaf springs for 3,500 lb axles depending on their length.

In order to get the right leaf spring, you will need to measure your current springs from center of spring eye to center of spring eye, taking into account they may have elongated somewhat over time. The leaf springs we offer for a 3,500 lb axle are the following lengths:

- 25-1/8" Long: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500 lb Trailer Axles # e54SR

- 23-1/8" Long: 3-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500 lb Trailer Axles # e59SR

I have added a link to a help article on double-eye trailer suspension I recommend checking out.

expert reply by: Kyle S