Putting heavier leaf springs on pontoon trailer?

[norman2013]

Hey guys, I have a single axel pontoon trailer that I would like to put on better springs. I feel that the ones on there now are slightly overloaded and there getting old. Any suggestions on how to do this? where to buy them?

 

[norman2013]

Re: Putting heavier leaf springs on pontoon trailer?

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Putting heavier leaf springs on pontoon trailer?

if the springs are overloaded then so is the axle and likely the tires....

 

[I`mNotMe]

Re: Putting heavier leaf springs on pontoon trailer?

.

If average loaded trailer and its axle beam is either straight across or chamber down (bowed downward) shape, then existing axle is too under sized. Axle beams should always be slight chamber high (bowed slightly upwards in the center) shape. If slightly bowed high, the axle beam will bow down (to straight across shape) when going across bumps.

If upgrading leaf spring packs (since leaf spring packs should be replaced every 20 years), I'd Scale Weight the average loaded trailer. Then, replace leaf spring packs and if needed, replace axle with next size up sizing. For example: If loaded trailer and boat weights 3,101 lbs, I would upgrade to 3,600 lbs (instead of 3,200 lbs) axle (and new 3,600 lbs leaf spring packs). Thus, allowing some buffer for those double railway tracks and/or extra deep bumps.

Hope this helps.

 

[norman2013]

Re: Putting heavier leaf springs on pontoon trailer?

Thanks guys! Any good places i can find trailer parts like this? store or online?

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Putting heavier leaf springs on pontoon trailer?

google "boat trailer parts" and compare prices with the top outfits on the list

 

[I`mNotMe]

Re: Putting heavier leaf springs on pontoon trailer?

.

For online parts research, surf: Trailer hitch, hitches and bike rack (800)298-8924

For me, I like removing the smaller parts and taking part to my local parts store. Thus, matching its eye-eye sizing and/or width. And, matching its arch curve as well. re: Some have 3" arch, some have 4" arch. Where possible, replace 3" with 3" and 4" with 4" - unless you need more arch shape in the new leaf spring packs.

When replacing leaf spring packs, remember to replace in pairs. re: Both sides at same time. Unknown to some, not all leaf spring packs at different stores are the same. When buying, buy both from same store and both at same time. Thus, getting from same steel batch (when they are made).

When replacing leaf spring packs, one may need to replace their leaf spring pack bolts and shackle plates as well. And, install new U bolts as well. Remember to budget for these items as well. For me, I replace all these little items at same time. Do shop around because prices dramatically vary in these items as well.

Hope this helps as well.

 

[lckstckn2smknbrls]

Re: Putting heavier leaf springs on pontoon trailer?

Get your boat and trailer weighed you need to know what your working with.

 

[Bamaman1]

Re: Putting heavier leaf springs on pontoon trailer?

ChampionTrailers.com is a great place to buy parts. And they have good tutorials on trailers online.

Replacing springs is a very quick and easy job if you have an impact wrench. Most would order all new hardware to rehang the axle.