Are Leaf Springs Installed Under the Axle or Over the Axle?

Updated 08/20/2018 | Published 08/18/2018

Products Featured in This Question

4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 2,000-lb Trailer Axles - 26" Long

(2005)

$50.50

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(774)

$64.99

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(774)

$86.94

Question:

I ordered some new springs and was wondering what side of the axel they should be installed on top or bottom? The old ones on my escort boat trailer were mounted on the top but the other customers pictures Ive looked at the springs sit on bottom of the axel. What should I do?

asked by: Nicholas

Expert Reply:

Trailer leaf springs are traditionally mounted under the axle. To mount them on top of the axle, you need to use an over-under kit to allow you to put spring seats on top of your axle. If you already have the spring seats mounted on top and bottom, then you can choose which orientation you desire based on your desired trailer height but springs will mount only where spring seats are on the axle. If you only have them installed on the bottom, then you will need a kit to allow you to install the springs on top as the curve of the axle can't be inverted. Installing them on top of the axle will give you a taller trailer.

We don't have over under kits for 2,000 lb axles, but we do have kits for 3,500 lb axles # K71-384-00 with a 2-3/8 inch diameter and larger axles with a 3 inch diameter # K71-385-00.

expert reply by: Jason S