decades old trailer suspension issues

[Darren Nemeth]

My trailer seems to be about about 35 - 40 years old and looks like it never got any maintenance.

One of the things I am concerned about is the condition of the o-ring type things the bolts pass through in the suspension, as pictured in the attachments.

Do these need replacing? If so, what are the parts called and where do I look for them?

Any advise will help. I know nothing about these things. :redface:

 

[_chris_]

Re: decades old trailer suspension issues

You should be able to pick up a set of leaf spring bushings at most auto parts stores. If they don't have them conact a spring company like Deaver or National and they should have them in most sizes. They are cheap and easy to replace but make sure you grease them when you put them in to. Jack your trailer up to where the weight is off the axle but it is still on the ground and you can pull one of the bolts to check the condition of the existing bushings.

Edit: I would change them out because it is pretty easy and will handle better, Also you only change out the rubber part the rest is either part of your spring or trailer.

 

[Darren Nemeth]

Re: decades old trailer suspension issues

Thanks! I am finally getting around to it this month.

 

[lckstckn2smknbrls]

Re: decades old trailer suspension issues

There might be a metal shaft inside the bushings that the bolt has rusted its self to. A sawzall and new bolts might be a good idea.

 

[Josh P]

Re: decades old trailer suspension issues

in the last picture it looks like the bushing is worn out, it looks like the spring is sitting on the bolt.

 

[Darren Nemeth]

Re: decades old trailer suspension issues

The frame of the trailer is bent in that area. I will have to bend it square to replace the rubber. This trailer is in rough shape!

I look at it like this; it's been a Superhero vessel for some years and everything associated with it has taken a licking. Fixing it up may let it last another 40 years, God willing.

 

[Bondo]

Re: decades old trailer suspension issues

I look at it like this; it's been a Superhero vessel for some years and everything associated with it has taken a licking. Fixing it up may let it last another 40 years, God willing.

Ayuh,... And I'd leave those spring bushings Alone....
Granted, they're in kinda tough shape,.. But they're still workin' just fine...
If you Attemp to replace'em,...
I pretty much Garrentee you'll end up with 10xs the job you started with...
Probably having to replace the springs...
Them things are Not comin' outa there,.... Even with Ox/Ac torches, That's a Bear of a job...
Those are composed of an inner steel bushing, an outer steel bushing,+ a rather thin rubber bushing between the 2 steel bushings...
The bolts are Not coming out,+ will need to be cut...
The bushings are Not coming out of the springs either... They'll haveta be Burnt out....

Ayuh,... Do as you wish, but those aren't Changed unless the spring pack is being changed...