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Old 08-24-2019, 03:05 PM   #1
bleedmichigan
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Leaf spring replacement

I have a 2011 3750FL. I am looking to replace the leaf springs as they are looking a little flat. Any good recommendations?
 
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Old 08-24-2019, 04:31 PM   #2
Hblick48
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Most guys will suggest you install independent suspension...very expensive.

My rig has two 6,000 pound axles, and the original springs were each rated at 2,500 pounds. After having two springs break on two different occassions, and severe tire wear on the inside, I replaced with 3,000 pound rated springs (an extra leaf).

The new tires have over 11,000 miles on them, and they look new.

Suggest you look at tag on axle to see what they are rated, and get springs that equal that rating. Wet bolts (if you already don't have). Etrailer is a great source.
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Old 08-26-2019, 08:06 AM   #3
beeje
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I replaced our entire suspension a few years ago after I found a missing spring eye wet bolt. New 3500lb Emco springs/new Mor Ryde wet bolt kit/new u=bolts etc. I believe it only cost $300 and most of a days work. The old bronze bushing were completely worn out and came out in pieces. The spring eyes were oblong and worn also.

I still don't trust the suspension so I have an appointment next June to rip it all off and get the IS installed at Mor Ryde
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Old 08-26-2019, 09:55 AM   #4
richfaa
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The Mor Ryde IS is a bit expensive but we are longtimers and do many,many road miles a year. The OEM suspension failed on our 2006 3400 within the first two years it literally came apart when we were doing @ 65 MPH on the interstate. We have had the IS ever since we changed it out on our 13 3402 within the first 6 months.It was a safety issue for not to mention a much better smoother ride.
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Old 08-26-2019, 06:36 PM   #5
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There are quite a few things in life worth spending $$$ on. I believe the IS is one of them.
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Old 08-27-2019, 05:47 AM   #6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by beeje View Post
There are quite a few things in life worth spending $$$ on. I believe the IS is one of them.
Amen to that!!!!
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Old 08-27-2019, 06:54 AM   #7
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We just upgraded with 7000lb axles and disc brakes - the reason for this is, this is our 1st 5er and the cost difference between IS and this is substantial. if we wear this unit out might wish I went the IS route but if we find a different 5er in 2-3 years will be glad of the choice.
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Old 08-27-2019, 08:10 AM   #8
Golfmedik
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There are a number of trailer places that carry springs for your rig such as Dexter themselves and even etrailer and trailer parts superstore.
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Old 09-02-2019, 01:51 PM   #9
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Check out Arizona Spring Co. if staying with leaf springs. They are near Tuscon. A quick search should get you their info.
I had an alignment done there on my IS, and very happy with it (but pricey).
Looks like their main stay is leaf springs and related mechanicals.
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Old 09-02-2019, 03:07 PM   #10
bleedmichigan
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I think at this point I will go with the SRE4000 a new set of leaf springs and upgrade the brakes to discs. Cost ends up at about 2100. We just got back from about a 10k mile 2.5 month trip from Maryland to Yellowstone and back with lots of stops along the way and I would like a little less bounce in the trailer or should I say less jarring bounce. Also the drum brakes in some of the more mountainous areas left a lot to be desired.
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Old 09-02-2019, 03:57 PM   #11
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I upgraded to SRE-4000 and disc brakes and we just returned from Alaska. I am really surprised with the performance of the SRE-4000. Hardly any indication of the rough roads we traveled compared to the equa-flex that came on the trailer. I also would never own another fifth wheel without disc brakes.
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Old 09-02-2019, 07:48 PM   #12
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What are the differences between the SRE 3000 and SRE 4000?
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Old 09-03-2019, 03:15 PM   #13
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Changing Leaf Springs

Have any of you changed or replaced the leaf springs yourself?

I had a broken spring last year after 10 miles of leaving home and was stuck in a smaller town for repairs. They fixed my up the next morning with 3500# springs (4) for which i was very happy. Now, about 3,000 miles later, I find the new 3500# springs are about 1" too long and are rubbing against the center metal block, which holds the big rubber shock. I really don't like it and want to replace all 4 leaf springs with 3500# springs, but a bit shorter.

Even though I'm 73, I thought I could still do it myself as I have blocking and jacks to lift and support the trailer safely. Just wondering if anyone out there has tackled such a job themselves.
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Old 09-03-2019, 03:26 PM   #14
Hblick48
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Nighthawk View Post
Have any of you changed or replaced the leaf springs yourself?

I had a broken spring last year after 10 miles of leaving home and was stuck in a smaller town for repairs. They fixed my up the next morning with 3500# springs (4) for which i was very happy. Now, about 3,000 miles later, I find the new 3500# springs are about 1" too long and are rubbing against the center metal block, which holds the big rubber shock. I really don't like it and want to replace all 4 leaf springs with 3500# springs, but a bit shorter.

Even though I'm 73, I thought I could still do it myself as I have blocking and jacks to lift and support the trailer safely. Just wondering if anyone out there has tackled such a job themselves.
I replaced my springs and brakes about 2 years ago at 67 years young. Been wrenching on cars for over 50 years. Sometimes brain says I can do a repair, but my body lets me know after job is done that maybe not again.

That said, with proper tools, equipment, and skills, you should have no problem getting it done. Use a jack to raise the spring into place.
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Old 09-03-2019, 05:09 PM   #15
beeje
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Nighthawk View Post
Have any of you changed or replaced the leaf springs yourself?

I had a broken spring last year after 10 miles of leaving home and was stuck in a smaller town for repairs. They fixed my up the next morning with 3500# springs (4) for which i was very happy. Now, about 3,000 miles later, I find the new 3500# springs are about 1" too long and are rubbing against the center metal block, which holds the big rubber shock. I really don't like it and want to replace all 4 leaf springs with 3500# springs, but a bit shorter.

Even though I'm 73, I thought I could still do it myself as I have blocking and jacks to lift and support the trailer safely. Just wondering if anyone out there has tackled such a job themselves.
Yes I have. Read post #3
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2011 Montana 3455 SA. 6 point level up. Disc brakes. Curt Q24 Hitch. 5 step glow steps
Progressive EMS. Valterra tank valves. Sailun G637 tires. ARP fridge control. All led lighting. Mor Ryde IS
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