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
- Search Results: leaf springs
- Search Results: cre 3000
- Shop: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,400-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" 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
- Shop: Dexter Heavy-Duty Suspension Kit for Tandem-Axle Trailers - 1-3/4" Wide Double Eye Springs
- Shop: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,000-lb Trailer Axles - 26" Long
- Search Results: trailer suspension parts
- Search Results: axle springs
- Shop: 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 5,000-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long
- Search Results: 4" shackle straps
- Search Results: slideout seals
- Q&A: Can I Use Heavier Rated Leaf Springs on Trailer Without Causing Damage
- Q&A: Recommended 25-1/4" Long Leaf Springs
- Article: Double-Eye Trailer Suspension System Review
- Video: Review of Kenda Trailer Tires and Wheels - Karrier KR53 ST205/75R14 Matte Black Aluminum - KE79JV
- Q&A: Lookiing To Upgrade Axles On 2015 Keystone Cougar 33RBK
- Video: Complete Breakdown of the 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 5,000-lb Trailer Axles
- Video: Review of EMCO Trailer Leaf Springs - 4 Leaf Double Eye Spring 2000 lbs Trailer Axle - EM26AJ
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Video: Review of etrailer Trailer Leaf Springs - 4 Leaf Double Eye Spring 4000 lbs Trailer Axle - e22YR
- Q&A: How Far Apart Do the Spring Hangers Have to Be for the MORryde X-Factor Crossmember To Fit?
- Q&A: Correct Leaf Spring for Trailer with Lippert 3,500 lb Axle
- Q&A: Replacement 25-1/4 Leaf Springs for a Ranger RT188 Boat Trailer
- 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
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Video: Detailed Breakdown of the U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb, Round Trailer Axles
on Trailer Leaf Springs
