Replacing a sliding leaf spring...

[floater180]

Hi All,

Has anyone had any experience replacing the leaf springs on your trailer? How hard is it and approximate time it takes to install both sides of a single axle trailer. Please advice.

Thanks

 

[siggyrocks]

Re: Replacing a sliding leaf spring...

It can be done fairly quickly if the boat isn't on the trailer.
I've have a bit of experience changing leaf springs on 4x4's.
I always go with new u-bolts so i just cut the old ones off.
Same thing with the mounting bolt. Cut off the head and drive the headless bolt through the spring and mount with a punch.
Careful, the u-bolts are under tension and will pop and release energy so be careful you aren't in the way when they let go.

 

[Proselect]

Re: Replacing a sliding leaf spring...

I would say if you are pretty mechanically inclined it should take only about two hours. I can whip them out in an hour or so if everything comes apart good, which I never count on. I just took my springs and axle out of my trailer when I painted it. I also suggest new u-bolts as well. I ended up replacing the 4 bolts that hold the springs in as well. If you don't want to replace the bolts at least change out the lock nuts. Once a lock nut is removed it usually won't lock anymore like it is suppose to. When I did mine I had two u-bolts that I had to cut. One of the bolts had to be cut, and one snapped off.

 

[dwco5051]

Re: Replacing a sliding leaf spring...

Less than 1 hour if you own a cutting torch. The previous posts are right on the money with their answers. Be sure to have new bolts and U-bolts on hand. Not only shouldn't you reuse the old ones but if you plan on doing it you will bugger at least one up and have to go for a new one anyway.

 

[floater180]

Re: Replacing a sliding leaf spring...

Wow! It didnt take long to replace my springs. The other question is I installed a spring rated for 3000 lbs as the trailer is rated but I only have a little over an inch of suspension play. Is that right???

 

[redone4x4]

Re: Replacing a sliding leaf spring...

Wow! It didnt take long to replace my springs. The other question is I installed a spring rated for 3000 lbs as the trailer is rated but I only have a little over an inch of suspension play. Is that right???

sounds about right. Remeber the ST tires are made to absorb some of the shock as well as the springs.