Does Trailer Suspension Require the Use of Shackles

Updated 03/07/2022 | Published 03/05/2022

Products Featured in This Question

4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 2,000-lb Trailer Axles - 26" Long

(2246)

$52.30

Single-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for Double-Eye Springs - 3-1/4" Front, 1-1/4" Rear

(384)

$53.51

Question:

My trailer leaf spring set up is like the one in the picture from your website and the other pic is mine, there are not any shackles. I am in the process of replacing the leaf springs and every where I look there is a reference to shackles. Do I need them or no? If the trailer does not have them would there be an advantage to adding them when I replace the springs? Loaded up the trailer will be less than 1400 lbs so I have a 2000lb axle and looking for springs to match. Spring length - eye to eye is 26 and 1/2 inches. Please advise- thanks.

asked by: Kevin L

Expert Reply:

If you don't use shackles you don't give the leaf spring enough movement to flex since they stretch out as they compress. So without them your suspension wouldn't move much. I'd recommend you use a hanger kit like the part # APS4 which comes with the correct hangers as well as the shackles and bolts needed.

expert reply by: Jameson C