How To Tell If a Trailer Leaf Spring Needs Replaced

Published 09/09/2021

Question:

We have a 2011 Bighorn BH 3185RL, 14,000 GVWR, 11,674 Dry Weight, 2,155 Hitch Weight, and originally with tandem 6000lb Dexter axles. The axles lost their camber and were replaced with 6500lb custom axles. The brakes never worked well and were replaced with disc brakes. My question is about the springs which look flat to me, but I would like an experts opinion. There are no cracked or broken leaves, and no separation between the leaves. Please see attached pictures. Thanks in advance.

asked by: Joseph L

Expert Reply:

In regards to trailer leaf springs, as they wear out of over time they will start to flatten and lose their rigidity and flex. There isn't really an exact degree of wear that will be had before the springs needs replaced, it's mostly done by visually inspecting the springs and their curvature. It looks like from the attached photos that the springs are mostly flat therefore I recommend replacement.

In order to find the correct replacement you'll need to unload the springs and record their length from the center of each eye. The new springs will be shorter than the existing due to the flattening. The 6-Leaf Double-Eye Spring part # e94SR for example measures 26" long. I have attached our full list of options below.

expert reply by: Conner L