Trailer springs

naptime · Guest

My trailer springs are rusted and the rust is flaking off. When is it time to replace the springs?

thataway · Posted: Sat Feb 26, 2011 3:24 pm Post subject:

Trailer springs will rust, since they are tempered steel. I like to wash them well with fresh water after each dunking. Some folks spray or pour (have to catch the residue) transmission fluid on them to help prevent rust. Others use corrosion X, some use tar based under coating or grease. All of the above work--before use clean off with a good stiff wire brush (wear face and eye protection). You can also clean the steel with phosphoric acid or "naval Jelly". I have an abalone iron I made from an old Chevy leaf spring (at least 60 years old). By coating it with grease after use, there has been virtually no further corrosion.

With leaf springs I always carry an extra set incase one breaks. However my current trailers use torsion axels, which seem less prone to rust problems.

naptime · Guest

Bob thanks. I always wash with fresh water but they continue to rust. I will try some of your suggestions. I have hit them with a hammer and the still sound solid, so guess they are ok.

I am going over my trailer that is 6 years old and has been used exclusively in the Atlantic Ocean. It has suffered from the high salt content. I am replacing all the lights and wireing along with several bolts/nuts that are not stainless. Salt is not good for us or our trailers at out age.

Jack in Alaska · Posted: Sun Feb 27, 2011 12:13 am Post subject:

Naptime...........

I had a 22' CD on an Easy Loader single axle trailer. Bought it new in 1983. I used it in the Cook Inlet (salt water) in Alaska for 21 yrs. before the springs finally gave up and broke just above the axle. They rarely got washed off with fresh water because it was not available. I then replaced both springs as well as all the shackles and bolts/bushings.

6 yrs. with a 16' CD....I would not worry about the springs yet.

Good luck