If you own a trailer and need to replace your old or broken suspension units, you will want to consider purchasing a new one. New trailer suspension units are designed to be bolted to metal plates that have been welded to the trailer’s chassis. But when you try to install a new suspension unit on an old trailer, it might cause more damage to the trailer than it is worth. You don’t want to ruin that.
Whether you own a single or a fleet, you should ask your dealer or supplier about the benefits of various types of trailer suspensions. They can help you understand the various types of suspension units and offer their expertise and experience in similar applications. Specialty trailers can be more expensive than a typical dry freight van, and they have specific vocational design intent, requiring a higher level of hardware and longer service life. When you buy a new suspension unit, you are investing in the safety of your cargo and the safety of your driver.
Different trailer suspensions provide different levels of ride quality and durability. To choose the best trailer suspension, you need to consider the weight of your trailer. While lightweight and durable, they can also be expensive. You may want to consider coil suspension or shock absorbers, or even a combination of both.
When purchasing a new suspension, make sure it is configured properly. In addition to choosing a new trailer suspension, you should also consider the ride height. High ride height can make the air spring internal bumper stiffer, reducing the ability of the suspension to isolate the trailer from the road.
If you need to replace the suspension on a trailer, you can consider a fixed installation. Some suspension units are bolted onto the trailer while others are welded into place. You should also consider the capacity of the trailer and the number of axles.
Choosing the right suspension is crucial for safe operation and safety. You should consider how much you plan to load your trailer, as higher axle loads are more damaging to the chassis. If you need to replace the suspension on a tandem trailer, it would be a good idea to consider the axle-sharing option.
For lighter-duty trailers, coil springs are the best option. They are cheaper and easier to install than slipper leaf springs. However, they are slightly larger than the slipper leaf springs, so they aren’t ideal for multi-axle trailers. You should also consider the length of your trailer’s deck if it’s taller than 13 inches. You can also opt for a single-leaf design if you need more lateral stability.
When compared to double-eyed springs, single leaf suspension units have a significantly lower number of moving parts. On the other hand, they have the potential to be noisy, particularly when travelling over rough terrain.
In addition, they offer a lower level of lateral stability compared to a regular trailer spring, which may be unsatisfactory for heavy-duty hauling applications. You also have the option of selecting a model with a single leaf, which is not only more cost effective but also more portable.