Will Using Longer Shackle Straps On My Trailer Suspension Affect The Amount Of Travel?

Updated 08/05/2021 | Published 08/04/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Front/Center/Rear Hanger for Double-Eye Springs - 4-1/4" Tall - 9/16" Bolt Hole

(220)

$32.64

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(834)

$80.12

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(834)

$95.78

Question:

If i increase my shackle strap 1inch will it affect suspension travel or have any bad effect on the supsension?

asked by: Daniel S

Helpful Expert Reply:

By using longer shackle straps it will have an affect on your suspension.

For a tandem or triple axle trailer it will move the leaf spring closer to the frame and may cause the leaf spring to contact the frame as the suspension articulates.

On a Single axle trailer the larger straps will change the amount of articulation that the spring has. This can have an adverse affect on the suspension components as they do not have a shock to dampen the suspension as it is traveling farther on bumps. The longer the travel the more shock that can be transferred to the trailer and its suspension components. This could lead to parts that break or wear faster.

The best way to get any kind of lift our of your suspension is by using either taller Hangers # E4139 or an Over-Under Conversion Kit # K71-384-00. This can be used on either single axle or multiple axle trailers as long as you are using the correct kit for your suspension. If you need help identifying the correct way to raise your trailer please let me know what trailer you have.

expert reply by: Bud M