Tires Hitting Fender Well on a Nitro Boat Trailer

Published 09/13/2021

Products Featured in This Question

3-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,000-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long

(2442)

$44.15

Dexter E-Z Flex Suspension Kit - Double-Eye Springs - Tandem Axle - 6,000 lbs

(639)

$401.78

Correct Track Trailer Alignment and Lift Kit - Single Axle

(57)

$213.14

Question:

I put the Dexter K71-652-00 equalizer on my trailer and everything seemed to line up pretty well without much manipulation. I noticed after the install that the bolt on the equalizer of the dexter are 5 5/8inch apart but on the old metal one they are 6 1/4inch apart. I think this has caused my tires to move up a little and are now rubbing the top of the tire to the inside bottom if the fender. Did I purchase the wrong part? is this normal and now I need to adjust my fender? Also, in order to get the bolts to suck in, I had to tighten the nut down until it didnt go any farther. Am I supposed to un-tighten that all the way back out and then re-tighten so that the sides if the mounting frame dont pinch the leaf spring?

asked by: Chris J

Expert Reply:

If the equalizer is more narrow than your original ones, it can definitely change where everything sits. Especially if the shackle straps are a different length as well. With that being said, the RV Ride Control Correct Track Trailer Alignment and Lift Kit # LC87120 can lower the equalizer connection down 1-1/4 inches or 2-1/4 inches, and should get you the clearance back. If you wanted to make sure you have clearance all the way around, you can technically install 3 of the # LC87120, one for the front hangers, one for the middle, and one more for the rear hangers.

You do not want to have the shackle straps tightened so much that they are pinching the springs. The best thing to do when tightening down shackle bolts is to use the included lock nuts with your Dexter E-Z Flex Suspension Kit # K71-652-00, tighten them until they are snug, then back them off 1/4 turn. This will allow them to move freely, but still be tight enough to not back out.

expert reply by: Lazer S