tent trailer spring over conversion
- Thread starter tacksman
- Start date
elmo_4_vt
Explorer
Lots of people on here have done a spring over axle (SOA)... However I would suggest purchasing a new axle with brakes. Anything over 3000lbs requires brakes legally in a lot of states, and it's really worth it if you ask me. The additional stopping distance with just 3500lbs pushing you will surprise you, especially in an emergency situation.
Like the poster said above, just make sure you'll have the clearances for the bigger tires on your wheel wells and adding a set of shocks will also help greatly.
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Like the poster said above, just make sure you'll have the clearances for the bigger tires on your wheel wells and adding a set of shocks will also help greatly.
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The Swiss
Expedition Leader
I don't see a problem with a SOA; I put a SOA on my trailer 8 years ago with no issues what so ever. 3,500 lbs without brakes however is SCARY :Wow1: I once pulled an old wood-chipper without brakes that probably was above 3,500 lbs for about 10 miles and it scared the you-know-what out of me.
tacksman
Observer
Thanks for the help. Brakes are a good idea.
3500lb might be on the high side for trailer weight.
I was looking at http://abctrailerparts.com/ for the parts needed.
I'm going to go with the 3500lb axle with new springs.
i'll post pictures when i get started.
3500lb might be on the high side for trailer weight.
I was looking at http://abctrailerparts.com/ for the parts needed.
I'm going to go with the 3500lb axle with new springs.
i'll post pictures when i get started.
njtaco
Explorer
Good idea, replacing the springs with the axle. Just a reminder...make sure the springs you order are the same width (width of the steel spring, not just distance apart) as the old ones so they fit the shackles and mounts already on the trailer. Either that or plan to replace them to match the new springs.
+1 on shocks, much easier to do now while the trailer is apart.
Don't forget to order bump stops to fit your new dimensions too.
+1 on shocks, much easier to do now while the trailer is apart.
Don't forget to order bump stops to fit your new dimensions too.
rusty_tlc
Explorer
FWIW here is a link to my build;
The Goony Bird
The Goony Bird
rusty_tlc
Explorer
One thing I would suggest is trying to find a local place that build trailers and sells parts. I went to Kro-Built here in Reno. They saved me a lot of trial and error.
REasley
Adventurer
Should you choose to do so, you can add brakes without replacing the axle. If you current axle does not already have the brake flanges in place, they can be added to your axle. The flanges are about $3.00 each. Then just buy the brake backing plates and drums.
Here is another thread for you to look at.
Chalet Arrow
Chalet Arrow