Orientation of U-Bolt for Installing Leaf Springs on a Trailer

Published 08/21/2014

Question:

Hi, I will be ordering U-bolt plates #115983 along with some other parts from you. My leaf springs will mount under the 1 1/2inch axle and Im curious about how the flanges on the U-bolt plate should be oriented. Should the flanges on the plates be oriented front-to-back as opposed to side-to-side, and should the flanges be angled up toward the leaf springs or down away from the leaf springs? In addition, my rear hangers are weld-on circular enclosed-type hangers hopefully you can tell from photos. Should there be bushings where the shackle bolt mounts through these weld-on hangers and if so, should they be nylon or metal-style bushings? Thanks,

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

The angled portion of the flanges on the part # 115983 should run front to back on your trailer and should angle away from your leaf spring. See the attached picture to see exactly how they should install.

Typically there are bushings installed in the hangers and leaf springs. We offer nylon and bronze ones that would work if you needed them. I attached a link to a page that has all the different ones we offer in all of the different sizes available.

expert reply by: Jameson C