Can A Taller Equalizer Be Installed To Gain Extra Height

Updated 01/12/2026 | Published 09/06/2024

Question:

I have a tandem trailer with 5200 lb axels and under slung springs, which gives me only about 2” of upward suspension travel. Is there any reason I can’t replace my simple equalizer with the 2” upper bushing to lower bushings dimension with a triangular equalizer with the 4” upper bushing to lower bushings dimension. It looks to me, it would be a simple and reliable way to gain 1” more of upper travel.

asked by: Bruce S

Expert Reply:

Hey Bruce,

You can swap out your current equalizer for a taller one, like the # TREQ310 you were looking at, but you could run into fitment issues and might need to replace the shackle straps, hangers, or even the leaf springs to accommodate the change.

With such a small change you might be fine but the shackle straps would be the next thing to swap out if you're not getting a 'W' shape from equalizers to the shackle straps (pictured below). Too far in or too far out can cause the suspension to bind and will typically snap the leaf springs because they weight won't be distributed properly between the two axles.

expert reply by: Kevin C

how to measure an equalizer
(click to enlarge)

how to measure a shackle strap
(click to enlarge)

Suspension 'W'
(click to enlarge)

Robin H.

1/12/2026

Hey Bruce, how did things work out after you tried the taller triangular equalizer on your tandem trailer? Did you end up needing to change the shackle straps or hangers to keep the suspension travel smooth? Your update could make it easier for others working with similar setups.