Determining If Open Eyed Slipper Leaf Spring Is Needing Replaced

Updated 04/13/2025 | Published 07/13/2022

Question:

Hey I bought this trailer, and noticed that it looks like the leaf springs are just barely in the mounting bracket are they

asked by: Quinn S

Expert Reply:

Your trailer uses an open eye leaf spring like # e24SR. Over time as the leaf spring softens the gap you are seeing will get bigger. As long as the leaf spring is not falling off the hanger when you raise the trailer weight off the axle they do not need replaced unless visibly damaged.

Since the overall length of the spring changes as the spring wears I recommend measuring the length of your spring on the radius of the spring(see image). Since this measurement remains the same it ensures you get the correct length spring. You will also want to check the capacity of your trailer/axle to ensure you get the correct weight spring. If you can provide me with these measurements and the trailer capacity I can help find the correct replacement springs.

expert reply by: Bud M

Measurement Points For Open Eye Slipper Leaf Springs
(click to enlarge)

Open Eye Slipper Spring Mounted On Trailer
(click to enlarge)

Greg

4/13/2025

Hi, question on these slipper spring images, what keeps the reverse curve end of slipper spring from falling off the rear mounting bolt when spring compresses. Thanks for any info.

Robin H.

4/13/2025

@Greg I don't have a good example of a picture on our site but where the bolt sits, spacing of the hangers and the way the equalizer is designed (for tandem) keep it from sliding out. I would only use them as a replacement if you have them already. If you try looking up pictures of open eye slipper springs you should be able to find a few examples but they aren't super common. Bottom line is if a manufacturer made a trailer with this spring style I wouldn't expect it to just fly off while driving down the road.