Leaf Spring Dilema...

[DasBaldGuy]

I am replacing all of the suspension bits under Moby and have a dilema about my Springs. The Leaf springs on Moby are very old and very rusty and should probably be replaced....however I just read the awesome article on rebuilding the axle (http://www.tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?t=33375) which made me think maybe I should just refurbish them.

OR

I could buy a new set for around $50 plus shipping. Problem is, I can't find springs that are the exact same dimension as my current rusty springs.

Here is the Dilema:



When I measure my old Springs the measurement I get between the 2 eyes is 26 and 5/8" (measurement E in the above image). I can only find eye to eye leaf springs on the internet that are either 26" or 27" and nothing in between.

Sooo here are the options:

1) Sand Blast, Powercoat, grease/graphite and reassemble old Springs (would probably cost $50 to have blasted/powdercoated but exact fit)

2) Buy new 26" Springs at $22 each (shorter than original, slightly stiffer ride and the Shackles won't be perpindicular to the road) Here are the 26" Springs --> http://stengelbros.3dcartstores.com/US-1013_p_2564.html

3) Buy new 27" Springs at $25 each (longer than original, slightly better ride but the Shackles won't be perpindicular to the road) Here are the 27" Springs --> http://stengelbros.3dcartstores.com/US-1016_p_1692.html

[Ageless]

Most larger cities have spring shops that will build them exactly what you request

[DasBaldGuy]

Most larger cities have spring shops that will build them exactly what you request

Meaning I take the old ones, they make new ones same shape/size in the load rating that I want?

[Ageless]

Yep, and if your springs aren't in bad shape they will refurbish them.

[Kevin A]

I think I'd go with the new 27" springs, they're only 3/8" longer.
The rear shackles don't always have to be perpendicular to the road, they are designed to pivot and allow the spring to flex. Without the movement in the rear shackle you would essentially have solid suspension.

[doug hodder]

I'm with Kevin....I'd just get some new ones. It's possible that if you are measuring an old spring, It was originally a 26....now it's tired. Doug

[Trackstriper]

1) Sand Blast, Powercoat, grease/graphite and reassemble old Springs (would probably cost $50 to have blasted/powdercoated but exact fit)

I'd explore the link below and see what might be applicable to our trailer springs, ".....Powdercoat, grease/graphite....."

http://www.eatonsprings.com/atqleaflubricantleaflinerstipinserts.htm

[eamarquardt]

I think you need to look at the issue a different way. The one end of the spring is fixed. The other end in connected to two links that allow the rear of the spring to float a bit in lenght as it goes up and down. Put your existing leaf on and see if the links are inclined forward, vertical, or inclined backwards. and how much room to swing there is. Intuitiely, in otherwords: my best guess, I think that the closer the links remain to the vertical the better. So, I'd choose the spring lenght that keeps the links as vertical as possible. In reality, there probably isn't that much of a difference between the 26" and the 27" springs.

There you have it, again, the "world according to Gus".

Hope this helps.

Cheers,

Gus

[Lou Park]

Are you measuring your old springs while they have weight on them?
They may have been 26" long originally.
Lou

[teardrop_focus]

Remember that whatever spring you decide to use, the spring shackle can always be repositioned (but there might be welding involved).

I would attempt to buy a new pair of springs that are correctly calibrated for your trailer's loaded weight.

Here is perhaps a very useful link: Spring Capacity By Dimension

[schaney]

You also need to consider the "C" dimension. Std 26" springs are 4.5" and 27" are 2.75.

My guess would be you have 26" springs that have sagged over time.

[DasBaldGuy]

Are you measuring your old springs while they have weight on them?
They may have been 26" long originally.
Lou

I have completely disassembled the trailer and measured the springs froom eye to eye and I also measured the mounts on the trailer....both the springs and the frame yeild approx 26 and 5/8". The Shackles were perpendicular when the trailer was together.

I think I will just order the 26" ones and let the rear shackles be less-than-perpendicular.

[danlott]

You also need to consider the "C" dimension. Std 26" springs are 4.5" and 27" are 2.75.

Schaney brings up a good point. Measure the "C" dimension of your current springs. You could either go with the 26" or the 27" depending on the height of your current springs. You could also raise or lower your height if you wanted to by choosing the ones the work best for your desired height.

Dan

[DasBaldGuy]

Well guys I decided to just order new springs...so I ordered these:

http://stengelbros.3dcartstores.com/US-1013_p_2564.html


I was able to get new shackles, plates and Ubolts (though none in stainless) at Tractor Supply Company (a store I had previously never stepped foot in).

I also got some really sweet metal fenders to replace the plastic ones that came with Moby. SCORE!