Another leaf spring shackle angle suspension question

[Pixie Susan]

I've read the info on here and other forums regarding the shackle angle when mounting leaf springs, but much of it seems ambiguous when it comes down to "what should I do". So here's what I've got.

I have a home built TD on a HF frame. The original owner fabricated a drop axle and took the slipper springs off leaving me with a super cool looking ride that is anything but smooth on bumpy roads. I'm replacing the axle with a 2000# Northern Tool round axle with leaf springs rated at 1500#/pair. My setup is about 950#. I run 195/75 R 14's. I don't do any off-roading with it but it's making its way to the desert/mountains in Arizona and Utah, amongst others.

I'm ready to finish putting everything together my next day off. The only big question I have is about the shackle angle under no load when I mount the rear hanger. What would be ideal given my specs?

Any pros want to lend their knowledge to this little lady?

Thanks in advance!


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[Pixie Susan]

It may be worth mentioning I tow this with a 1st gen Scion xB, which has done wonderful thus far.


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[Redneck Teepee]

This chart above will show you all you need to know. Your shackle bottom leaning slightly (just past 90deg.) forward will soften your spring rate.





This is a pic of my spring angle and it rides pretty smooth for a 1400 pound teardrop. Not to worry though... any position within 90 degrees off the datum line 10 to 15 degrees either way will work just fine.

Good Luck!

[Kaz]

Wish I found that explanation and pic when I was building mine. Mine is slightly to the rear and it rides ok.I was shooting for slightly forward but the tape measure was upside down I assume the set up is for an unloaded suspension, Does it make a difference ?

[Redneck Teepee]

Wish I found that explanation and pic when I was building mine. Mine is slightly to the rear and it rides ok.I was shooting for slightly forward but the tape measure was upside down I assume the set up is for an unloaded suspension, Does it make a difference ?

The springs on an unloaded small trailer (Teardrop) won't compress too much, if any, when you flip it over onto it's axle as long as the springs are correctly sized for the application and completed build weight range.....So yes set it up unloaded.

Hope I was helpful

[dales133]

Mine are angled back about 10 deg as i was advised but i havnt had a decent tow yet

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[Pixie Susan]

Those who aren't thrilled with the way your trailer rides...why? Too bouncy?


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[Pixie Susan]

Mine are angled back about 10 deg as i was advised but i havnt had a decent tow yet

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How is it riding?

[dales133]

Ill tell you in a few days i hope.
Ive just added shocks to but ive got the cabin off so i expect it to be pretty firm but hopefuly little boynce

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[Pixie Susan]

Ill tell you in a few days i hope.
Ive just added shocks to but ive got the cabin off so i expect it to be pretty firm but hopefuly little boynce

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Good for you! I contemplated taking the cabin off mine for about 2 seconds before opting for rolling around on the floor.

[Pixie Susan]

Any of you folks mount shock absorbers with your leaf spring setup? If so, did you buy a mounting kit or fab one?


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[dales133]

I got a monting kit for mine but had to alter the top mounts and weld them to the frame.
The bottom mounts bolt onto the spring ubolts .
Same as these.
https://www.couplemate.com.au/trailer-p ... absorbers/

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[KCStudly]

I used parts store shock studs... special shouldered bolt/studs that prevent over tightening the shock bushing... and built the mounts for them.
Here's how I did it: http://www.tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?p=931777#p931777.

[Pixie Susan]

I used parts store shock studs... special shouldered bolt/studs that prevent over tightening the shock bushing... and built the mounts for them.
Here's how I did it: http://www.tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?p=931777#p931777.

Nicely done!

[Pixie Susan]

Finished her up yesterday!


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