Slipper Springs Are Falling Out Of Bracket - Should I Try Different Springs?

Question

Question:

I have a trailer with a single slipper spring set up. Identical to the one you sell part no EM68RB. It is the correct spring for the trailer at least thats what came from the factory is I have two identical trailers and they both have the same springs. The issue is the slipper end will start pulling out of the trailer bracket/mount. Its almost as if the spring is too long and once there is weight on it the extra length causes the slipper end to slide for further back than it should. Should I try a different set of springs? I could barely get these ones in without a load on it because they were almost too short to get the bolt in.

asked by: Keith h

0

Expert Reply:

Hey Keith, thanks for reaching out. If the slipper end of the spring is falling out of the bracket, it likely means the spring is either too long, or it is not rated high enough for the trailer weight. It could also mean the springs are worn out. When they get worn out, they will flex more than usual which could cause the problem you are describing.

Replacing the springs with new ones should prevent this from happening. I'd also recommend making sure the spring is rated appropriately for the trailer/axles. Typically, when replacing leaf springs the best practice is to do a direct replacement for the stock springs.

Do you know the weight capacity of the axles? Or the gross weight of the trailer?

expert reply by: Jesse M

0

Keith H.

3/17/2026

I don't unfortunately. They have five leaves in them and the boat is probably around 300 lb. From what you said I'm guessing it's got more to do with them being worn out than anything. I don't think they're the incorrect Springs because I have two identical trailers and they both have those same Springs on them. Thank you for the reply

Jesse M.

3/17/2026

@KeithH Yes I think we are on the right track with the springs being worn out. Doesn't sound like they are under rated.

Keith M.

3/18/2026

These were a little longer than the ones that came off my trailer. When I installed them, the rear bolt was probably about an inch from the end of the spring. When I put load on the spring, they compressed to the point where the top part of the U end of the spring was past the bolt. However this didn't concern me as it can't go down without taking load of the spring which would make it shorten faster than it has time to fall down, if that makes sense. Meaning in order to compress the spring so that the hanger part is past the end of the bolt, the spring is pushing UP on the bolt so it can't fall DOWN.

Jesse M.

3/18/2026

@KeithM Thanks for the detailed feedback, Keith. Sounds like you’ve got a good handle on how the springs are behaving under load, and that explanation will definitely help others understand what they’re seeing during install. Appreciate you taking the time to share that.

Cody

3/18/2026

Most slipper spring hangers have a piece welded (in what would be the top) in them that the spring rides on make sure this piece is not missing, if it is then put a new hanger kit on it

Tom M.

3/18/2026

Springs are out back waiting for first nice spring day to be installed. TNX. Tom

Jesse M.

3/19/2026

@TomM Nice! That spring weather is almost here! Let me know how it goes!

Francis

3/18/2026

Hey Keith, I'd say hands down the spring is a little too long...the spring listed is an open eye spring..or..are you using bushings on the open end???

Ted

3/23/2026

The springs were an exact replacement. I was really surprised how much arch was gone from the original spring. The reason I replaced the springs was a broken leaf that them swung out and cut the tire in two. Way past due for the up grade. I also liked the bushings that were included with the springs. My boat tows so much better now.

Jesse M.

3/25/2026

@Ted Hey Ted, thanks for sharing! Yea old springs can definitely flatten out over time. Especially if they are constantly being loaded close to their max capacity. Good thing you replaced them when you did!

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Slipper Springs Are Falling Out Of Bracket - Should I Try Different Springs?

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