Is it Ok to Replace Factory Leaf Springs With a Higher Capacity Option?
Updated 08/18/2021 | Published 08/16/2021
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Hello, I have a twin axle travel trailer weighing 5000 lbs. loaded and my leaf springs are rated at 1500 lbs 3 leafs, 26 in. centers. which means they are always loaded at 0ver 80 capacity. I was thinking of changing to 2000 lbs leafs to reduce the load to 60 percent of capacity. I understand that I will have a higher spring rate and that the axles cant take it but wouldnt I gain spring life and less chance of failure? I figure at 60 loading, I am well in the operating range of the heavier spring so the ride shouldnt be that bad. A travel trailer can never be unloaded like a utility trailer so things shouldnt fall apart. Am I making any sense? From your experience, have other trailer owners done this? In general I am not very happy with trailer companies loading components to 80-90 percent capacity by design. It is what it is I guess. Thanks p.s. I have been reading your responces and find it great that you offer advice, keeping safety and regulations in mind.
asked by: Luc
Expert Reply:
Though I do tend to warn people about the ride getting stiffer when upping the capacity of their leaf springs, you are correct in that you will technically never be fully "unloaded". I do have to mention that this could still happen, but very minimally.
With that being said, this is something that is done pretty often. Whether this is due to the factory springs not handling the weight very well, or wearing out over time, upgrading to a slightly heavier capacity is perfectly fine. The 6-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,500-lb Trailer Axles # e27SR will match your current 26 inch length and will have the single spring capacity of 2,000 pounds. These should eliminate the possibility of bottoming out, and should also extend their longevity.
I don't suggest going with a capacity higher than this, however, as it will most likely cause the trailer to ride poorly.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Rust-Resistant 4-Leaf Double Eye Spring for 5K Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long - Dacromet
- Trailer Leaf Springs
- Double Eye Springs
- 9/16 Inch Eye
- Nylon Bushings
- 5000 lbs
- 1-3/4 Inch Wide
- 4 Leaf
- 25-1/4 Inch Long
- Marine Grade
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: trailer leaf springs
- Shop: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 5,000-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long
- Shop: MORryde Suspension Upgrade Kit for Tandem Axle Trailers - 2-1/4" Long Shackle Straps
- Shop: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,400-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long
- Shop: Dexter Heavy-Duty Suspension Kit for Tandem-Axle Trailers - 1-3/4" Wide Double Eye Springs
- Video: Review of EMCO Trailer Leaf Springs - 3 Leaf Double Eye Spring 3500 lbs Trailer Axle - EM46AJ
- Shop: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,000-lb Trailer Axles - 26" Long
- Shop: U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb, Round Trailer Axles - 7" Long U-Bolts
- Shop: MORryde X-Factor Crossmember for Standard Frame Hangers
- Search Results: cre3000
- Search Results: leaf springs
- Q&A: Can I Use Heavier Rated Leaf Springs on Trailer Without Causing Damage
- Search Results: light kit
- Search Results: coupler lock
- Search Results: tow lights
- Search Results: e track
- Video: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,000-lb Trailer Axles Spec Review
- Article: Double-Eye Trailer Suspension System Review
- Video: Checking Out the Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly
- Q&A: Recommended 25-1/4" Long Leaf Springs
- Video: Review of Kenda Trailer Tires and Wheels - Karrier KR53 ST205/75R14 Matte Black Aluminum - KE79JV
- Video: Complete Breakdown of the 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 5,000-lb Trailer Axles
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: Lookiing To Upgrade Axles On 2015 Keystone Cougar 33RBK
- Q&A: Looking For Replacement Brakes, Hubs, And Leaf Springs For My Dexter Axles
- Q&A: Correct Leaf Spring for Trailer with Lippert 3,500 lb Axle
- Q&A: Choosing Between 4,000 and 5,000 Lb Leaf Springs to Replace 25-1/4 3,500 Lb Leaf Springs
- Video: Review of RV Ride Control Trailer Suspension Parts - Alignment and Lift Kits - RR23QX
- Video: Review of EMCO Trailer Leaf Springs - 4 Leaf Double Eye Spring 2000 lbs Trailer Axle - EM26AJ
- Q&A: Replacement 25-1/4 Leaf Springs for a Ranger RT188 Boat Trailer
on Trailer Leaf Springs
