Replacement Suspension Components for 2014 Redwood 5th Wheel

Updated 09/10/2026 | Published 09/01/2026

Question:

I need to replace the equalizers, shackles and leaf springs on my Redwood 38RE camper. It currently has Trailair Equaflex LCI 1455451 Equalizers and subpar shackles maybe 1/2 inch shackles. I have been looking at the Morryde Equalizer for 35 wheelbase, but I having trouble deciding if this would work. How do I determine the wheelbase dimensions. Do I measure the distance from center hub of front axle to center hub of rear axle? Also how do I determine the correct leaf springs since I wish to change the equalizer? The axles on my RV are actually 7k axles according to the label on them, which seems strange to me since the GVWR is 16,500ibs. Any help is appreciated..

asked by: Charles W

Expert Reply:

Thanks for letting us help Charles. The wheelbase on your tandem-axle fifth wheel is measured from the center of the front axle spindle to the center of the rear axle spindle on the same side of the trailer. An easier way to get the same measurement is to measure from the center of the front wheel hub to the center of the rear wheel hub on the same side. If you're considering upgrading to MORryde equalizers, such as the # MR27ZR you were looking at, you'll definitely want to take that measurement. However, the wheelbase isn't the only measurement we need to consider.

When upgrading equalizers, the goal is to improve the suspension while changing the original suspension geometry as little as possible. I'd also want you to measure the horizontal center-to-center spacing of your existing equalizer. This is measured between the two lower holes where the equalizer connects to the shackle straps. You'll also want to measure the center-to-center bolt hole spacing of one of your existing shackle straps. That will help us determine the correct heavy-duty shackle and wet bolt kit to pair with the new equalizers.

For the leaf springs, we'll want replacements that are as close as possible to the original spring length and capacity. Since your Redwood has tandem 7,000-lb axles, you'll want springs appropriately rated for those axles rather than selecting them based on the trailer's GVWR. You will want to jack the 5th wheel up to take the weight off of the axles and measure the unloaded leaf springs from eye to eye. The fact that your fifth wheel has a higher GVWR than the combined axle capacity isn't necessarily unusual. A significant portion of a fifth wheel's loaded weight is carried by the truck as pin weight, rather than by the trailer axles.

If you reply with the wheelbase, existing equalizer hole spacing, shackle strap length, and unloaded leaf spring length, I'd be happy to help you determine which MORryde equalizer, shackle kit, and replacement springs will work best together.

Have any big trips planned in your Redwood after you get all of your maintenance done?

expert reply by: Christopher H

Jasper

9/9/2026

I did replace a damaged Equalier MR27ZR with a new unit. Change was easy and the Jayco 382FLRB 5th wheel is as good as new. I now own a 2025 Durango 333RLT and I want to upgrade the suspension to the Roadmaster Tandem 7k axels with shock absorbers. Im hoping etrailer will partner with me as I think this is a great upgrade for any one looking for a good comfortable towing experience over long trips. I am looking to upgrade early spring next year. Thank you for offering such great products and services to the RV community.

Tom B.

9/10/2026

Hello There!! Yes Etrailer was a big help with me getting my Suspension equalizers and disc brakes!! The disc brakes were the best thing I ever did to my Arctic Fox Fifthwheel! GVWR is 15k and it stops really fast now!! Awesome system!! And the Mor Ride equalizers 3000 I installed smooth things out really well!! Plus I installed the wet bolts on the suspension also so can grease everything up!! System is great!! $$ well spent!!

Christopher H.

9/10/2026

@TomB Glad we could help you out! Sounds like you went with some great upgrades and I'm not surprised they are working well. Have you taken any big trips in your Arctic Fox this summer?