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Post by 61shastacompact on Jun 14, 2011 20:15:36 GMT -5
Yesterday, I worked on upgrading and updating the suspension on my Compact. The 50 year old springs had the poor girl sagging. I believe that the trailer being under sprung also contributed to some stability issues that I was experiencing. I moved up to a heavier leaf spring and added Monroe 555002 shocks. I also extended the shackles. All I can say is that the difference is night and day. I lost my lowrider stance, but I gained a much better behaved trailer and the added shackles allows for better removal of the tire from the wheel well.  |
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Post by Atomic Addiction on Jun 15, 2011 1:34:23 GMT -5
Looks good Jim.
What is the height difference? Did you do a before and after measurement? I'm assuming you did the work yourself? I bet people would want a source for your new springs. Do you mind sharing a vendor for those folks to check out.
Brian
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Post by 61shastacompact on Jun 15, 2011 23:09:36 GMT -5
Yeah, thanks Brian. I did the work with the help of my step father. I sourced the springs from Potter Webster since they are local to me. www.potterwebster.com/I used the aws-3 springs which are a standard 3 leaf rated at 3000 lbs for the pair. The spring length is 26" and the free height matches the original springs.The ride is firm but compliant. If I were to do it again, I would try their as-4 springs that are a 4 leaf spring that is rated at 2100 lbs a pair. Those springs would probably be a nice match the original springs with a more progressive spring rate. Make sure to get the bronze bushings to replace the nylon bushings if you have wet/greaseable bolts. ***UPDATE 7/16/11*** I decided to remove the lower leaf from this spring pack and therefore I am now only using the two remaining leaves. Now the ride is more like 2000 lb springs as opposed to the 3000 lb. Seems like a better match for my trailer. *******Overall I gained a little over 2 inches in height compared to my saggy springs. The longer shackles account for 1/2 inch. I could have stuck with the stock shackles, but the added clearance is helpful. On the shocks, I mounted directly to the frame at the top using the supplied spacer. It required drilling a 1/2 inch hole in the frame. On the bottom mount we fabricated a new tie plate out of 2.5X3.5 angle iron and welded a piece of angle iron for a mounting tab. I had mounting bolts and a wider spacer left over from another shock install and it worked well for the bottom mount. |
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Post by blazer5 on Mar 26, 2013 13:55:00 GMT -5
I realize this is an old post and I would like to replace my leaf springs as the trailer kinda sags in the back and tows with a bit of sway. I would love to do this exact thing and am wondering if this kit listed on e trailer is enough support for my 65 compact. www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Suspension/Redline/2-1020.htmlAny help is VERY appreciated! Thans in advance everyone! Tom |
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Bob
250 Post Member
Pictures are still on my blog: thisoldcamper.com
Posts: 375
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Post by Bob on Apr 3, 2013 8:00:38 GMT -5
The kit that you referenced has 20" springs and the U-bolts are for a 1 7/8" axle.
I don't have a compact, but those sizes look a little small. My 1400 has 26" springs on a 2 3/8" diameter axle tube. I'd double check your measurements before you order. You may need some new shackles and shackle bolts, too.
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Post by blazer5 on Apr 3, 2013 15:22:41 GMT -5
The kit that you referenced has 20" springs and the U-bolts are for a 1 7/8" axle. I don't have a compact, but those sizes look a little small. My 1400 has 26" springs on a 2 3/8" diameter axle tube. I'd double check your measurements before you order. You may need some new shackles and shackle bolts, too. Thanks Bob. I appreciate the input! |
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See my rebuild pics at: 
