suspension problems

Bob E. wrote:
Since the rear equalizer has shackles front and rear, this would result in the center and rear tires moving towards each other as the springs flatten under load. Maybe this is your problem??

Actually, the more I think about it, the more I think this is your problem. Your springs are too long. You had stated that you believed you were supposed to have 35" axle spacings because it is a triple axle trailer. However, according to Dexter, you can have a triple axle setup with 33" spacing, and your measurements from hanger to hanger match Dexter's spec for 33" spacing. Did you order springs for a 35" axle spacing? Think about it. The front and rear spring hangers are fixed. If all three springs are 2" too long to start, that would push the front and center axles back 1" and the rear axle forward 1". This would be why your total distance from your front axle to rear axle is less than 66 total inches (2 spaces at 33"). You are measuring 65 total inches (34"+31"). Plus, now that you have taken a trip, your new springs have relaxed and settled a little flatter making the problem worse. I'd wager a bet that your shackles are leaning way more towards the spring hangers than the originals. They may even be bound up.

Measure your spring length from eye to eye under load and see what it is.

Okay, so I have measured the springs under load (it finally stopped raining), and the measurements under load are 26-1/2" eye to eye, so I believe you have the answer to my problem. Dang springs are too long. With that being said, I find the solution is not that simple. You mentioned 2 inches shorter, however I cannot locate a 24 inch spring (unloaded measurement) that meets the weight rating of my trailer. The closest I can get is either 24-7/8 inch or 25-1/8 inch. The loaded measurement should be 26 inch according to the specs I have read from Dexter and Axis. So I am leaning towards the 25-1/8 inch that when loaded will be closer to 26 inches.