Replacing 6-Leaf Springs On A Tandem Axle Trailer With Lower Rated Springs

Updated 10/30/2023 | Published 10/28/2023

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2469)

$73.28

6-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,500-lb Trailer Axles - 26" Long

(2469)

$69.79

MORryde Suspension Upgrade Kit for Tandem Axle Trailers - 2-1/4" Long Shackle Straps

(2324)

$125.09

Question:

I recently purchased a boat with a trailer, and from what I can tell the 6 leaf springs are probably a 7000lb rating. The suspension does not even move! The boat only weighs 3000lb fully loaded. I want to swap to a lower spring rate of 4000lb. Is there anything I should be aware of? Nothing on this setup will ever be over 4000 lbs. Right now it is a 27 inch spring, but the wheel is too far back in the opening, so I will be switching to a 26 inch spring.

asked by: Paul E

Expert Reply:

A 7,000 lb spring for a 3,000 lb trailer is certainly overkill. I imagine your ride is going to be very stiff with the current setup. For a 26" spring we have the 6-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,500-lb Trailer Axles # e27SR, which will be much more appropriate for the kind of weight you are pulling. If you stick with a 6 leaf spring, it should not effect your ride height or fender clearance. We do also have a 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,000-lb Trailer Axles # e22YR, but reducing the mount of leaves in the spring pack will slightly lower your ride height. So sticking with a 6 leaf will be best.

That being said, your fender clearance is really the only factor you will want to be aware of here. Our rule of thumb is you should have 3" between the tire and the wheel well. If looks like you are cutting it pretty close in your pictures, and as long as you can keep the tire from contacting the render you will be good. Keep in mind that if swapping out the leaf springs allows the suspension to move normally, you will certainly want to keep an eye on your clearance.

If you are going to be swapping out your springs, we do recommend getting a new shackle and bolt kit. For that I recommend the MORryde Suspension Upgrade Kit # MR46ZR. This will come with the 2-1/4" long heavy duty shackles, bronze bushings and wet bolts. A very nice upgrade from stock.

expert reply by: Jesse M