Recommendation For Spring Over Axle Conversion Kit To Use on Trailer With 3,500-Lb Axles

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Question:

I am considering buying this part to do a spring-over-axle conversion on my trailer. I measured my trailer axles circumference with a tailors tape and got 7 5/8. This works out to a 2.43inch diameter. You have SOA conversions for a 3inch axle and a 2 3/8inch axle. My measurement is about 1/16inch away from 2 3/8. Can I assume that its actually 2 3/8, and that trailer axles dont commonly come in 2 7/16inch diameter? I would think that the difference is due to imprecision in measuring, but I would also hate to do something dumb that would render my trailer unsafe. For perspective, the axles are rated for 3500# each. Thanks!

asked by: Joshua

0

Expert Reply:

The typical axle diameter for an axle that is rated for 3,500-lbs is 2-3/8 inches. Some can have a 3-1/2 inch diameter, but it is very rare.

I would recommend to use the Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit, part # K71-384-00, you have referenced, which is designed for the 3,500-lb axle with the 2-3/8 inch diameter.

The Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit, part # K71-385-00, is designed for the 3-inch diameter axle that is used on 6,000-lb and 7,200-lb axles.

I am including a picture that will show how the new parts will be installed on your trailer.

When lifting your trailer you need to keep in mind that the geometry of the trailer will change. You may encounter lower or heavier tongue weight, and/or the trailer may become top heavy, contributing to trailer sway and instability, especially when passing large trucks or in high winds. In these situations, it may require you to go with a weight distribution system with sway control, if you are not already using one. I am including a link to a FAQ page on weight distribution and sway control for you to review.

expert reply by: Jeff D

0

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Paul

5/25/2020

Hi. Looking for a spring over axle kit for my camper. It has twin 6,000 lb axles that are 3 1/8 inch diameter. What kit do I need? Thank you

Chris R.

5/28/2020

Unfortunately we don't have an Over-Under Conversion Kit designed for 3-1/8" diameter axles. Another good way to lift up your trailer is to simply replace your existing hangers with longer ones. If you decide to go this route I've linked our full hanger selection below.

Helpful Links

dept-pg-trailer_leaf_spring_suspension-pt-hangers.aspx

Answer 1

It's not a stupid question, it's a perfectly logical one but you should not flip the Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with 4" Drop E-Z Lube Spindles #7685269 to get rise as this was not the intended design as it is an underslung axle with spring…

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Answer 2

In order to make sure you get the correct replacement parts you will want to take a measurement or two. It would be best to measure the spring while the trailer is lifted and weight is taken off the spring. You need the eye-to-eye measurement to make…

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Answer 3

I would be happy to help! When measuring for new leaf springs you need to either take them off of the trailer, or jack up the side of the trailer so that the axle is not carrying any weight. Based on the pictures of the leaf springs on your 2017…

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Answer 4

Yes, the Deter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit #K71-384-00 will work just fine with your Lippert axles, the only thing you're going to need to check is that if the kit will fit your axle. For instance, #K71-384-00 will work with axles…

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Answer 5

Hello there Frank, and thanks so much for that info. The answer to your question is 100 percent yes, you can use one of the Dexter Over/Under kits on your Jayco travel trailer with 3,500 lb Lippert axles. Those are 2-3/8" diameter axles, so the…

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Answer 6

Yes, you can mix axle brands. The Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with E-Z Lube Spindles - 95" Long - 3,500 lbs you were looking at would work just fine with a Lippert axle item #7359765. No, you wouldn't want to weld spring seats to the top of an…

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Answer 7

Hi Paul, you’re definitely on the right track here, and I can help you narrow this down with confidence. With your tandem 3,500 lb Dexter axles and 33 inch spacing, both the Dexter EZ Flex part #K71-652-00 and the Lippert Road Armor part #LC53CK are…

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Answer 8

You can use leaf springs that are rated higher than the axle without any issues as long as they measure the correct measurement for your trailer. For example the 6-leaf double eye spring for 7,000 lb axles part #e64SR measures 24-7/8" eye to…

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Answer 9

Hey Ian, great to hear from you again! The differences between the MORryde CRE3000 #MR87ZR and AllTrek 4000 #MR89DR that fit a 33" wheelbase is the height between the hanger and equalizer bolts, and the amount of travel the suspension style will…

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Answer 10

Hi Chas, The Lippert Road Armor Shock Absorbing Equalizer part #LC53CK may work for your trailer, but that will depend on what equalizer is currently on your trailer. In order to determine what equalizers would be a fit for your trailer, we'll…

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Answer 11

Hey Jeff. There is definitely a correlation between weight and capacity. I've listed the weight of all three of the Power Mountain Tallboy Off-Road Bottle Jacks we have below: Power Mountain Tallboy Off-Road Bottle Jack - 7-15/16" to…

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Answer 12

We have lift kits for trailer that easily add 2 inches to the height of the trailer. For that you'd want the part #RR23QX and you'd be set. I attached a picture that shows how it installs to give you an idea. This would be the easiest…

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Recommendation For Spring Over Axle Conversion Kit To Use on Trailer With 3,500-Lb Axles

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