Will Higher Rated Leaf Springs Increase Camper Ride Height

Published 10/29/2021

Products Featured in This Question

6-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 6,000-lb Trailer Axles - 26" Long

(2045)

$84.43

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(782)

$72.79

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(782)

$88.89

Scissor Stabilizer Jacks w/ Handle - 18-3/4" Lift - 5,000 lbs - Qty 2

(783)

$81.65

Question:

Is it recommended to go up in size. Im looking to get my camper off the ground. I broke one of the 4 leafs on my existing camper. Even walking through the camper prior to it being broken it seamed as though the camper was very squishy. I need more clearance!!!

asked by: David B

Expert Reply:

Other than gaining you a height difference equivalent to the difference in the thickness of the spring pack, swapping out your existing 4 leaf springs for springs with 6 leaves won't have any effect on the trailer's ride, assuming that

1) The replacement spring is rated the same as the original
2) The original springs weren't completely worn out past their service life

So, unless the existing springs are completely worn out, replacing them won't remove the 'squishy' feeling you described. Nor would I recommend going with higher rated springs, as they will make your camper's ride more harsh, which could possibly damage it over time.

It's actually pretty normal for a camper to move about on its suspension as you're walking around in it. This is why campers are frequently equipped with stabilizer jacks like part # TJSCHD-24.

Depending on the diameter of your axle beam, if your axle is mounted on top of the leaf springs, you could increase the ground clearance by relocating the leaf springs atop the axle, which would gain you the diameter of the axle + the thickness of the spring pack as a height increase.

If your springs are locate below the axle, and your axle beam is 2-3/8 inches in diameter, you can use the # K71-384-00 kit or # K71-385-00 for 3 inch diameter axles.

I'll also link to a help article that discusses how to raise your trailer ride height.