2-1/2 Inch Shackle Straps Are Flipping After Replacing Leaf Springs

Updated 07/22/2022 | Published 07/21/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Shackle Strap - 2-3/4" Long

(512)

$9.16

Shackle Strap - 3-1/8" Long

(558)

$7.44

Question:

Replaced the broken 2400lb leaf springs on a single axle boat trailer. New shackles were slightly shorter 2.5 than what was on there. Now the springs completely flatten out so that the shackles are parallel with the frame. It is my understanding that this will happen if the shackles are too long. Why would this be happening with one that is shorter than the standard for a 2400lb spring. Should I go even shorter? First 2 pictures show shackle flattened out. We too off the load and popped the spring back, tightened shackle bolts, drive it again, and it resulted in the picture. I think now we have the bots too tight.

asked by: Chris M

Expert Reply:

Shackle straps can actually flip if they're too short as opposed to being too long, so it makes sense because you mentioned you put on shorter, 2-1/2" shackle straps. Also, if the leaf springs you replaced are shorter than what you had ( leaf springs elongate over time so you likely got ones shorter than what you replaced, as is common), straps can also flip.

I recommend going with longer shackle straps, either the Shackle Strap - 2-3/4" Long # TRSL275 or Shackle Strap - 3-1/8" Long # TRSL313.

expert reply by: Kyle S