Tandem Boat Trailer Suspension Equalizer Sits Unlevel And Contacted The Frame

Updated 06/02/2021 | Published 05/31/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Fulton Boat Trailer Jack w/ Wheel - Sidewind - Swivel - 10" Lift - Zinc - 1.2K

(1735)

$96.03

Dexter E-Z Flex Suspension Kit - Double-Eye Springs - Tandem Axle - 6,000 lbs

(579)

$365.55

Question:

The front axle is bent on my 22-year tandem axle boat trailer bent upward toward the outside of the frame on one side, with indication that the axle has contacted the frame. The equalizers sit with the front much higher closer to frame than the rear. Attached photo was taken with trailer sitting level on level floor. I have moved the trailer with no change and I noticed this before the axle was bent. A trailer shop has measured and confirmed everything is positioned correctly. The trailer was made for the boat by the boat manufacturer Four Winns, so it is correctly sized. All four tires are a matched set. Sits level when towing also. If everything is positioned and sized correctly, are bad leaf springs the only possibility? There is no sign of damage, so is weakening by fatigue a common problem? Would it be recommended to replace the springs when replacing the axle? I presume all 4 springs should be replaced together? Appreciate your insight. Thanks

asked by: Greg F

Expert Reply:

As your trailer is 22 years old I recommend that all the suspension components are gone through and upgraded.

The bolts and bolt holes could be rusted internally causing the suspension to not function properly through its range. This could also lead to your issue with the equalizer riding uneven. A kit like the Dexter E-Z Flex Suspension Kit # K71-652-00 will not only give you a cushioned equalizer but also give you wet bolts. The wet bolts will allow you to easily add grease to the bolts ensuring that water does not get inside your bolts and rust the components.

If any of the suspension hangers are bent or the bolt holes show signs of damage those should be replaced.

To replace the leaf springs you will need to measure the springs with no weight on them. I have included a picture below of the measurements that will need to be made. We will also need to know the trailers weight rating to ensure that the correct weight springs are chosen.

You will want to ensure the bent axle is also replaced as this will increase the risk of severe damage occurring to your trailer. It will cause your tires to wear unevenly as well.

Lastly you will want to check the weight distribution across the trailer both with the boat and while empty. If there is to much tongue weight you will want to either redistribute weight in the boat or possibly move the boat back on the trailer slightly to more evenly distribute the weight. The goal is for 10% of the trailer weight to be on the tongue when level.

expert reply by: Bud M