by 48Rob » Wed Nov 18, 2009 8:48 am
Hi Dan,
I personally wouldn't remove leaves from any spring sets before speaking to someone in the know at the company that makes the springs.
Working with verified accurate information is the key...
All the spring sets on trailers I've ever dealt with are rated as a pair.
If the axle/trailer capacity is say, 3000# then each spring set can safely carry at least 1500# (most are over rated slightly, such as 1750# per set).
The manufacturer can tell you exactly what the bottom spring, and next in line if neeeded, are designed to carry.
Then, if each bottom spring is rated for say 500# if you remove the bottom spring from each side, you have reduced the capacity of the spring sets by 1000# (500# per set, or side).
Were I you, I'd build the trailer, get it weighed when you have it loaded with camping gear, then decide if the weight rating needs adjustment.
With a set rated at 2500# now it may work out just right, as is.
Properly cleaned and lubricated spring sets will also act like a lesser rated set, compared to a rusted and dirty set that can't flex as designed.
Rob
Last edited by
48Rob on Wed Nov 18, 2009 9:34 am, edited 1 time in total.
Waiting for "someday" will leave you on your deathbed wondering why you didn't just rearrange your priorities and enjoy the time you had, instead of waiting for a "better" time to come along...