Replaced My Leaf Springs On My Trailer, How Do I Get The Right Size?

Updated 05/22/2025 | Published 05/20/2025

Question:

I have a question, I recently ordered 26” leaf springs to replace on my 20year old boat trailer. After replacing them, the shackle straps will flip and bind when bouncing on the back of the trailer. I’m assuming that my original leaf springs extended over time and were likely around 25”. Is it easier for me to just buy longer shackle straps or a shorter leaf. I contacted the manufacturer and they are unsure what size the original leaf was. I’ve attached a photo of the binding and that angle of the shackle straps under normal load

asked by: Carlos S

binding shackle strap
(click to enlarge)

binding shackle strap (2)
(click to enlarge)

Expert Reply:

Hey Carlos,

Your original springs definitely flattened out over time and will measure longer than what they originally were. So the 26" you replaced them with was longer than what you needed. Your original ones were most likely closer to a 25" spring. It doesn't come down to what is easier, but what you want to do to make your trailer ride normal. You are going to want to get the right size leaf springs for that trailer and replace the 26" ones on it now.

Do you happen to have the original springs still? There is another measurement you can take to get the correct size, I will show that below for you. It is going to be measurement B. If you have the original springs and can get that measurement let me know and I can find the correct size for you. If you do not have the springs you could measure from the center of the hanger that is welded to the frame, to the other to get a better idea of what length you need. It is likely going to be something like # e44SR, a 25-1/4" spring, but getting that B measurement is important to make sure we are 100%.

Let me know if you can get some measurements and we can get this figured out.

expert reply by: Nick S