Recommended Spring Hangers, Leaf Springs, and Axle Flip Kit for a 3,500 lbs Axle
Updated 12/22/2025 | Published 10/16/2024
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Question:
Hello: looking to upgrade the suspension on my 1968 Forester 17 foot camper trailer. It is a single axle and appears to be a 3500 pound axle with 5 lug wheels. I am wanting to install the Dexter over/under axel kit with new springs. The closest springs I have found are part e36FV which are 4 leaf springs and my current springs are 5 leaf. The other difference is in the width of the spring, the new springs are 1 3/4 inches wide and mine measure a full 2 inches wide. Can I add bushings to adjust for the new narrower spring? Thank you.
asked by: Tip
Expert Reply:
Hey Tip! Since you have 2" wide hangers and there's no double eyed leaf springs that are 2" wide you'll need to swap out your spring hangers. Depending on the height of your current ones this might also help you lift your trailer up some. You'll want the Single-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for Double-Eye Springs item # APS4. This kit also includes all the mounting bolts and shackles you'll nee.
Then for a set of leaf springs, I recommend the 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring item # e97SR. They are rated for 3,500 lbs axles, have 4 leafs, and measure 27" long from eye to eye.
We have two options for the axle flip kit and it's going to depend on the diameter of your axle which one you need. You most like have a 2-3/8" axle since it's a 3,500 lbs but I through in the 3" in case it is larger.
2-3/8" Axle - Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit item # K71-384-00
3" Axle - Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit item # K71-385-00
Product Page this Question was Asked From
TruRyde Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Standard Grade
- Self Adjust
- 10 x 2-1/4 Inch Drum
- 3500 lbs Axle
- 13 Inch Wheel
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- TruRyde
more information >
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Jerred H.
12/22/2025
Hey Tip, how did the suspension upgrade on your 1968 Forester trailer turn out with the new hanger kit and 4-leaf springs? Your results could really help others working on older single-axle campers.