What Can Happen To A Trailer If The Leaf Springs Are Bad And Not Replaced?

Updated 06/15/2021 | Published 06/14/2021

Question:

What can happen if you continue to use bad leaf springs on a trailer?

asked by: Chad S

Expert Reply:

It really depends on what is referring to when you say the spring is bad.

If you are meaning the leaf spring on the trailer is worn out and is now flat, you can have issues with the trailer bouncing due to the spring no longer being a spring, and issues with the axle coming up and hitting the frame of the trailer.

If the spring is physically damaged then it could break further and cause the axle to shift as the spring is what holds the axle to the trailer.

I recommend going ahead and replacing the leaf spring if you believe it damaged.

To determine the correct replacement spring there are a few things you will know and/or measure.

First you will need to determine if your springs are double eye springs or slipper springs. A double eye spring has a spring eye on each end, where a slipper spring has one spring eye and one end of the spring that is either flat or has a slight radius to it.

Next you will need to measure the length of the spring. On a double eye spring this is measured from center to spring eye to center of spring eye. On a slipper spring this is measured center of spring eye to the end of the spring. For either style you will need to have the axle off the ground with no weight on the spring. If there is weight on the spring it will stretch and give you an inaccurate measurement.

Now you will need to measure the width of the spring. The most common width is 1-3/4" but there are wider springs out there.

Lastly you will need to determine the axle rating of the axle on your trailer. The best way to do this is by looking for the axle rating on the axle tag. The axle tag is located on the center of the axle.

If the axle tag is missing you can get a rough idea of the axle rating by taking the GVWR of the trailer and dividing it by the number of axles the trailer has.

If you can provide the above information I would be happy to help you find the correct replacement for your trailer.