Replacement Springs for a 2008 Newmar 5th Wheel Trailer

Updated 08/28/2024 | Published 08/24/2024

Question:

I have a 2008 Newmar fifth wheel it weighs about 17,600 empty weight 20,000 pounds GVW it seems to me like it is riding rough over expansion joints and larger bumps. The springs have been under here for 16 years. Do you think by adding new springs that would help with the ride? None of them are broken. I’m just wondering if they could have weakened over the time With that much weight on them. it measures three inches from the top of the axle to the frame of the trailer these are under slung units when I jack the trailer up I have about 4 1/2 inch clearance between the top of the axle and the frame , so it squats about an inch and a half when you set it down on the tire do you think TT 15252 Timbren SES system would work instead of changing the springs or would that put too much squat on the Timbre SES the representative of Timbren said they are unloaded four and three-quarter inches long and can be compressed to 2 1/4 inches. I currently have that 3 inch distance so it would give me about three-quarter inch of travel. with this heavy of a spring. I don’t think it gives much anyway, but I could be wrong . looking forward to your opinion

asked by: Richard W

Expert Reply:

New springs would absolute help and it would be exactly what I would recommend. Springs flatten out within a few years so yours being on there for 16 years are definitely in need of replacement.

Timbren's are designed to work with a fully functioning suspension system. You're slapping a bandaid at best on a problem if you're trying to use those to compensate for worn out springs. Adding Timbren's is going to stiffen up your ride by preventing your suspension from flexing. Your suspension is flexing so far because your springs are worn out. I strongly advise you to address your suspension concerns by replacing your old worn out springs.

In order to recommend the correct replacement springs I'll need to know three things. First, your axles capacity. Second, is the measurement from the center of the eye bolt to the center of the eye bolt on one of your springs. Third, how many leafs your springs have. To get an accurate measurement you'll want to jack one side of your trailer up because they've obviously flattened out. Once you get this information around go ahead and comment below with it and I'll find you a set of replacement springs.

expert reply by: Jerred H