What do trailer leaf springs do?
Trailer leaf springs are an important, but often neglected part of the trailer’s suspension. Leaf springs are the most common type of trailer spring. Their purpose is to absorb bumps in the road, allowing for smoother, less bumpy trailer operation.
Leaf springs are usually located beside each wheel. They are made of metal strips stacked on top of each other to form a curved piece or “leaf”. The curvature of the leaf spring allows for the effective absorption of bumps and improves the control the driver has over the trailer.
Learn more about leaf springs >
Leaf spring maintenance:
The leaf springs require very little maintenance, however, they can lose effectiveness as they get older. The attachment points of the springs should be occasionally checked for damage and lubricated. This will keep them working smoothly.
Symptoms of damaged trailer springs:
Eventually, the springs in your trailer can become rusted, or bend over time. Symptoms of this include:
The trailer seems “bouncier” – Faulty leaf springs will affect the way your trailer absorbs bumps in the road. This will result in the wheels leaving the ground more often, causing it to bounce more.
The trailer sits lower than normal – Over time, the leaf springs can bend or sag, resulting in the trailer sitting at a lower level than normal.
Visible cracks or rust in springs – We recommend that you occasionally inspect the leaf springs for cracks or rust. If the spring is severely damaged, it should be replaced.
Trailer leaf spring bushes worn out – where the trailer leaf spring connects to the trailer chassis it uses bushes to allow the leaf spring to pivot as the trailer axle moves up and down. If there leaf spring bushes get worn out you can have too much play in the trailers suspension, causing rattles, bangs from metal on metal contact, and possible safety issues.
Trailer leaf springs too hard or soft for trailer – if you need your trailer for a specific purpose and specific load rating then you may need to get your trailer leaf springs changed to suit the weight of the load you normally carry. For example, if you start carrying heavier loads, you may want to look at getting heavier trailer leaf springs fitted, while lighter loads would need lighter trailer leaf springs. With too soft / light trailer springs you may find that you trailer wheels sometimes rub on your trailer mud guards when going over bumps with a load on.
Warrant of Fitness Requirement – Please note: your trailer leaf springs will need to be in good working order with none of the above issues in order to pass a trailer warrant of fitness (WOF).
New Trailer Leaf Spring Replacement in Hamilton
Is your trailer in need of a new leaf spring replacementa? If so, we can help!
When replacing your leaf springs, you need to know the type and size appropriate to your trailer. This often makes it difficult to get done. At Grimmer Motors, we can determine the right type of leaf springs for your trailer, saving you time and money. Our qualified and experienced mechanics can then install the leaf springs into your trailer, allowing for smoother, safer operation.
Additionally, we offer several other trailer repairs, such as trailer lights, trailer wheel bearings and more.
For all your leaf spring fixes, repairs and replacement needs in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!
Please Note – we don’t generally stock or supply just “parts only” for this service. We are a general automotive repair workshop. If you are able to bring your vehicle to us, we can diagnose the problem, find and fit the necessary parts, or organise the appropriate service for you.