Replacement Equalizers and Wet Bolt Kit For a Tandem Axle Utility Trailer

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Question:

I have an old tandem axle trailer utility trailer with double-eye leaf springs and a cast equalizer. It squeeks like crazy as I go down the road. All of the bolts appear to be heavily rusted and are likely seized. Before I start taking this thing apart, can you help me figure out what parts Im likely to need as replacements? Each side of the trailer has seven 3 x 1/2 bolts. I have no idea if I can use wet bolts in some or all of the locations but would like to consider if available in the right size. Also Im ignorant of if any bushings are used or needed in this setup. Thank you.

asked by: Keith H

Expert Reply:

Your tandem axle utility trailer will likely have an equalizer like the Curved Equalizer # TREQ104. These would have been held in place by 3" Shackle Bolts # 166081 and Nylon Bushings # 721590 and Shackle Links # LC122487 on the ends of the equalizer.

The best upgrade you can do is to replace the equalizer and all mounting hardware with the Dexter E-Z Flex Suspension Kit # K71-652-00. This kit has an equalizer that is designed to replace the curved equalizer with a width of 5-1/4" to 6-1/4". The included shackle straps are 2-1/4" from center of hole to center of hole. Also you get bronze bushings that are superior to the nylon bushings that you likely have.

If you do not want to replace the equalizer a Wet Bolt Kit # MR46ZR can be used to change over to the bronze bushings with the wet bolts and new shackle straps.

I recommend using LubriMatic LMX Industrial Strength Grease # L11390 for the wet bolts. This grease is superior in high stress applications and is highly water insoluble so it will not wash away easily if you drive your trailer in the rain and water gets into the bolts.