Can 2" Shackle Straps Be Switched With 2-1/4" Shackle Straps
Updated 06/28/2025 | Published 06/18/2025
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I have a tandem single wheel Dexter 3500? axle utility trailer. I have replaced the worn shackle straps, bushings and bolt parts in the past. Now I find 2 straps. I see the Dexter HD upgrade is for 2.25 straps. Is there a way I can check if my design is compatible for the change from 2 to 2 1/4? I even wonder if I did not pay close attention in the past and used the shorter ones by negligence. Can I measure from the frame to the end bushing and compare to the hanger when level? Tire to fender clearance when loaded will not be an issue.
asked by: David D
Expert Reply:
Hey David! If I had to guess your utility trailer originally had 2-1/4" on there since that is the standard. One way or another, that slight difference isn't enough to cause an issue with the suspension geometry. If you want to use the Dexter Heavy-Duty Suspension Kit for Tandem-Axle Trailers # K71-359-00 you can. However, you need to make sure your current equalizers match the 5-3/4" length of the Dexter from the kit.
If you don't want to swap out the equalizer, or find yours is a different length, you can use the MORryde Suspension Upgrade Kit for Tandem Axle Trailers - 2-1/4" Long Shackle Straps # MR46ZR instead. This comes with wet bolts, bronze bushings, and the heavy duty shackles without the equalizer.
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Heavy-Duty Suspension Kit for Tandem-Axle Trailers - 1-3/4" Wide Double Eye Springs
- Trailer Suspension Parts
- Suspension Kits
- Boat Trailer
- Snowmobile Trailer
- Double Eye Springs
- Tandem Axle
- Dexter
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Dexter Heavy-Duty Suspension Kit for Tandem-Axle Trailers - 1-3/4" Wide Double Eye Springs
- Search Results: 27 inch leaf springs
- Search Results: 27 inch long trailer leaf springs
- Search Results: 3500 lb leaf spring
- Video: What to Know About the Dexter Heavy-Duty Suspension Kit for Tandem-Axle Trailers
- Search Results: morryde suspension upgrade kit for tandem axle trailers ~ 2~1/4" long
- Search Results: morryde suspension upgrade kit for tandem axle trailers
- Search Results: shackle link
- Video: All About the Dexter Heavy-Duty Suspension Kit for Tandem-Axle Trailers
- Article: 5 Tell-Tale Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Trailer’s Leaf Springs
- Shop: Dexter Surge Brake Actuator - Disc - Elec Lockout - 2" Ball - Zinc - 7.5K - 3" x 5"
- Shop: Dexter E-Z Flex Suspension Kit - Double-Eye Springs - Tandem Axle - 6,000 lbs
- Shop: Dexter Heavy-Duty Suspension Kit for Tandem-Axle Trailers - 1-3/4" Wide Double-Eye Springs
- Q&A: Recommended Equalizer Kit for Tandem Axle Trailer with 13-104-02 Equalizers
- Q&A: Can I Use Heavier Rated Leaf Springs on Trailer Without Causing Damage
- Video: Breaking Down the MORryde Suspension Upgrade Kit for Tandem Axle Trailers
- Video: MORryde Suspension Upgrade Kit for Tandem Axle Trailers w Correct Track Feature Review
- Q&A: Disc Brake Assemblies, Surge Brake & Brake Lines For 1989 Spartan Boat Trailer Tandem 3,500LB Axles
- Q&A: How to Find Disc Brakes Converting From Drum Brakes on Boat Trailer With 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern
- Shop: Aluminum AM06 Series Black Machined Trailer Wheel - 15" x 5" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2
- Shop: Replacement Shackle Link with Bolts for Dexter Trailer Suspension Kits
- Shop: Shackle Strap - 2" Long
- Video: All About the 5-Flat Trailer End 48" Harness
- Video: Optronics LED Trailer Lights | Straight from the Manufacturer
- Video: Kodiak Disc Brakes Spec Review
- Q&A: Can I Upgrade 3,500 lb Axles to 5,200 lb Axles on a Budget
- Article: How to Accurately Measure Trailer Leaf Springs
- Article: Double-Eye Trailer Suspension System Review
- Q&A: How to Find if Dexter Heavy-Duty Suspension Kit Will Fit on Trailer
- Q&A: Cushioned Equalizer to Replace Dexter 13-104
on Trailer Suspension Parts
David D.
6/28/2025
Thanks Robin = homework to do!