Can A 6,000 lb Leaf Spring Be Replaced With A 7,000 lb Spring Without Replacing Axles?

Updated 10/30/2025 | Published 02/04/2025

Question:

I have a 2006 forest river 5th wheel toy hauler that keeps breaking leaf springs. I have 6000 Dexter axles. can I get 7000 springs. or do I have to replace axles too.Thanks

asked by: Dave J

Expert Reply:

Hello Dave, thanks for reaching out. It is possible to replace a 6,000 lb leaf spring with a 7,000 lb spring, as long as the eye-to-eye length is the same. It will not necessarily increase the carrying capacity of your trailer, since the axles are still 6K rated, but a more stout spring should be less prone to breaking. Generally when we see leaf springs repeatedly break, it is because they are overloaded, or because they are being used in rough conditions, like off-roading.

Do you know the eye-to-eye length of the springs? If not, you can jack up one side of the trailer and measure the springs when not under a load. Let me know what spring length you need and I am happy to look into it and see if we have anything for you.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Jesse M.

10/30/2025

Hey Dave, were you able to measure the eye-to-eye length of your leaf springs on the Forest River toy hauler? Once you have that length, I can help narrow down the right 7,000 lb spring options. Let me know what you find so we can get you set up with something sturdier.