OT Trailer suspension question

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Model T Ford Forum: Forum 2012: OT Trailer suspension question
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Steven Thum on Saturday, August 18, 2012 - 05:57 pm:

I am not real knowledgeable of dual axle trailer suspension so I thought some one would know the answer to my question.

I acquired a 2005 Mac-Lander all steel 18 foot car trailer. The left front tire is badly worn and the front axle looks like it has been changed. I know the wear could have started before the axle was changed on this trailer but the center spring shackles do not look like they are correctly installed.

I made a drawing shown below. The upper drawing is how the trailer came to me. The lower drawing is how I see the other dual axle trailers that I have looked at.



My question is should I change the set up to look like the bottom drawing or can I leave it set up like the top drawing?


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Ricks - Surf City on Saturday, August 18, 2012 - 06:42 pm:

Could be it went over a really big bump, like airborne, and the rocker got above the spring?


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Don Lyon, PDX, OR. on Saturday, August 18, 2012 - 09:05 pm:

You should put it back like the bottom picture or the suspension won't work right. Somebody probably jacked up the trailer at one time and didn't notice the flipped over shackle. Also, never jack up a trailer with the jack in the middle of the axle. Always put the jack as close to the back of the tire being changed as safely possible to avoid a bent axle. Don, PDX.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Jim on Sunday, August 19, 2012 - 01:26 am:

The danger in buying any used trailer is that it has been abused - it is worn out - it needs repairs that exceed the value.

When shopping for a used trailer, take someone experienced with you that knows what to look for.

To answer your immediate question, the shackle straps have flipped (which is a symptom of other problems).

Cut your loss - take the trailer to a trailer repair shop you trust - have a full inspection done before you use it.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By David Stroud on Sunday, August 19, 2012 - 03:23 am:

As Don said, it should look like your bottom drawing. Dave


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Steven Thum on Sunday, August 19, 2012 - 05:46 pm:

Thanks guys, that is what I thought.

Steven


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