leaf springs

[kennethj]

Im using 2 1500 lb leaf springs, my teardrop is very rough, is it safe to remove one leaf from each spring?

[Steve_Cox]

Im using 2 1500 lb leaf springs, my teardrop is very rough, is it safe to remove one leaf from each spring?

Sure

If the trailer weight warrants it. We also do a few other things to soften the ride on sprung Tear Drops. Another is using radial tires and decreasing the air pressure a little. Trailer tires are known for their ability to carry high loads and have stiff side walls for that purpose. Teardrops on the other hand rarely are as heavy as a load of bricks.

[48Rob]

Gas shocks ARE a good idea for most trailers/vehicles.
However, if the trailer is lightweight, and the spring pack is too stiff (not enough weight to make them flex as designed) then the shocks, though not harmful, will not help.

Shocks are designed to limit the amount of movement or flex of the springs.

The trailers that are in need of shocks are those which are too heavy for the spring pack, or approach the max weight the springs are designed for.
When you hit a bump, the springs flex greatly, causing the trailer to bounce up and down.
The shocks dampen, or slow that action.


Rob

[dguff]

I think 3000 pounds of leaf spring capacity on a teardrop is way too much. The springs will not flex much and the tear will ride like it has no springs at all. Definately remove at least a leaf, shortest one first.

Jerome

[Rock]

I pulled two of the three springs from the assembly that came with the HF 1175# trailer and it's STILL too stiff for my camper. Of course my camper only weighs 400# all in.

Eric

[schaney]

Depending on what type you have, new leaf springs rated for your planned load aren't that expensive.

[Dulcimer Man]

Im using 2 1500 lb leaf springs, my teardrop is very rough, is it safe to remove one leaf from each spring?

I have removed spring leafs many times without ill effects and it does improve the ride. If trailer bounces too much it may need shocks.