How Much Longer Can a Leaf Spring Be And Work Safely on a Tandem Axle RV Trailer?

Updated 05/07/2024 | Published 05/03/2024

Question:

Hello How critical is the length of a replacement spring on a dual axle R.V. trailer? The replacement I have is 1 ½ inches longer than the OEM. Would this work? Any help would be much appreciated Thanks Ken

asked by: Ken

Expert Reply:

A leaf spring being 1-1/2" longer is going to be to much of a difference to work properly for the trailer suspension. While it may bolt up the positioning of the axles will change by quite a bit and may bind up as the suspension travels through its range of movement. Typically I do not like to see more than 1/2" difference in the length of the leaf springs when you replace them if you are unable to find the same size. If you can let me know what length springs you have and how you are measuring and the weight capacity of each axle I can see if we have the correct leaf spring.

expert reply by: Bud M

Ken

5/6/2024

Hello again I am looking for a leaf spring for an r.v. Trailer. the dimensions are 1 3/4 wide 3/8 thick Center to center of the eyes straight across Dexter axle 5200 pounds Would you have one Thanks Ken

Bud M.

5/7/2024

@Ken You're length measurement did not show up. Ideally we have the 5,300LB Spring # e76SR which is 24-7/8" long. Otherwise we would have to go up to one of the 6,000lb axle springs from the list below. 25-1/4" Long # e34SR 26" Long # e94SR 25-1/8" Long # e47SR Do understand the length measurements on all these springs is with the spring relaxed and no weight on the spring. The distance will get longer with weight added and the springs tend to never return to their manufactured length over years of stress.