Replacing Leaf Springs On A Vintage 1965 Streamline Empress

Updated 02/05/2024 | Published 02/03/2024

Products Featured in This Question

4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 27" Long

(2045)

$62.24

U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 3,500-lb, Round Trailer Axles - 5-1/2" Long U-Bolts

(1996)

$68.08

Tandem-Axle Trailer Hangers for 1-3/4" Wide Double-Eye Springs - 3-1/4" Tall Front

(119)

$59.95

Question:

I want to replace the leaf springs on my vintage Silverstream Empress. I measure 1/2 way between the two bolts and come up with 27.5”. The widths of the springs are 2” wide. It was recommended that I get the e97SR leaf spring. My concern is that they are 1.75 wide. Is this still applicable? Please advise. The warmer weather is coming and this is when I will replace them. I spoke to Jesse last and he gave me some good advice on the MoRyde and wet shackle kit. Ty Skip

asked by: Skip

Expert Reply:

Hey Skip good to hear from you again. The # e97SR leaf spring that you mentioned is going to be our best option for replacing the springs on your 1965 Streamline Empress.

All of the 2" wide leaf springs that we carry are going to be slipper springs. A 2" wide double eye spring really is a thing of the past so going to a 1-3/4" spring will be the only option if you want new springs.

The MORryde wet bolt kit and the equalizer that we discussed are designed to work with a 1-3/4" wide spring, so if you still plan to make those upgrades, everything will be compatible.

You may need to get some new U-bolts or at least U-bolt plates that are designed for a 1-3/4" wide spring. For that I recommend the Dexter U-bolt kit # APUBR-1 which is made for a 2-3/8" diameter axle tube.

You should be able to use the current spring hangers. Even though they are 2" wide they will still accommodate a 1-3/4" wide leaf spring. We do offer new hangers, like the Tandem Axle Hanger Kit # H248 if you decide you want to replace them. These would need to be welded to the frame.

As always you can feel free to reach out to me if there is ever anything else you need.