How to correct uneven "Bump Clearance" ?
I have a slight sag on the passenger side of our travel trailer. After extensive measurements, I find the bump clearance is actually less on the right side. Bump clearance is the space between the...
Forum Discussion
Many trailer makers design their suspension system on "minimum" specs and nothing more. And, this is after 13% tongue weight is subtracted from Trailer's GVWR number. This allows cost savings - which means more profits in their pockets.
If planning to keep Trailer a few more years, I would simply take trailer's GVWR weight number and divide by 2. Then, round up to obtain Axle & leaf spring pack size. For example.... If trailer has 7,855 GVWR, then /2 = 3,927.5 lbs. I would then replace its existing axles with 2 x 4,200 lbs and 4,000 lbs springs. If 4,200 isn't available, then go with +1 size of of 4,500 lbs (axles and springs). Especially if one packs heavy.
Note: Doing +1 size upgrades doesn't mean one can exceed 7,855 GVWR number. +1 allows for extra buffer of rough roads and/or extra support from trailer's heavy side - from a pull in slide.
If wondering, I always +1 size all my trailers (utility, RV, boat) and it works great. Yes, I do the work myself. And where possible, I also upgrade their tires (rubber) as well. Money well spent - especially if keeping trailer for many years.
Note: When ordering new Leaf Spring packs, remember to order Leaf Spring packs with needed arc shape as well. If proper arch shape isn't available, then re-design using Leaf Spring Packs "on top" of axle tubes (instead of default under axle tubes). This works for me.
If planning to keep Trailer a few more years, I would simply take trailer's GVWR weight number and divide by 2. Then, round up to obtain Axle & leaf spring pack size. For example.... If trailer has 7,855 GVWR, then /2 = 3,927.5 lbs. I would then replace its existing axles with 2 x 4,200 lbs and 4,000 lbs springs. If 4,200 isn't available, then go with +1 size of of 4,500 lbs (axles and springs). Especially if one packs heavy.
Note: Doing +1 size upgrades doesn't mean one can exceed 7,855 GVWR number. +1 allows for extra buffer of rough roads and/or extra support from trailer's heavy side - from a pull in slide.
If wondering, I always +1 size all my trailers (utility, RV, boat) and it works great. Yes, I do the work myself. And where possible, I also upgrade their tires (rubber) as well. Money well spent - especially if keeping trailer for many years.
Note: When ordering new Leaf Spring packs, remember to order Leaf Spring packs with needed arc shape as well. If proper arch shape isn't available, then re-design using Leaf Spring Packs "on top" of axle tubes (instead of default under axle tubes). This works for me.
