Can Longer Trailer Suspension Equalizer be Replaced with Shorter One
Updated 05/13/2026 | Published 05/10/2026
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Question:
My trailer has dexter 14-3/4inch equalizers part 13-142. Would you be able to replace the smaller equalizers with these? These will be used on 3500 dexter tandem axles.
asked by: Steve B
Expert Reply:
Hey Steve, in order to replace your # K13-142-02 with the much shorter # K71-359-00 you'd have to go with a considerably longer leaf spring if available. What is length of your current spring and axle capacity? Is there a reason you want to go with this kit?
Bill
5/13/2026
I needed 8 inch equalizers and only the five inch were sold with the kit. I drove out the 3/4 inch bronze bushings in the purchased 5 inch ones, drove out the nylon bushings in the 8 inch equalizers, drilled and tapped the equalizers in all three bushing holes and installed the removed bronze bushings into the 8 inch equalizers. I am a mechanic, so I knew how to do all of this and still have a well functioning system. It worked great, but any warrantee was given up.
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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
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Steve B.
5/12/2026
I was just looking for a suspension kit with 25-1/4" leaf springs (4 leaf) and a heavy duty wet bolt upgrade kit, I can probably use my existing 14.75" equalizers if the wet bolt inserts will fit. I must not have made it clear enough in my question that my trailer already has the 14.75" equalizers, and that I won't need the shorter ones..