Trails West Campster Dry Weight- replacing leaf springs

[Rpryor3]

Hello all,

I have a 1970 trails west Campster that I will be replacing the leaf springs on. Does anyone have any idea what is the dry weight of these? I really don't want to have to drag it to a public scale. The weights I am considering are 2500#, 3000# or 3500#. Any input is greatly appreciated.

[Bobbie Mayer]

I believe in the brochure they claimed 840 lbs? Something like that. What's wrong with your springs?

[Rpryor3]

Originally Posted by Bobbie Mayer

I believe in the brochure they claimed 840 lbs? Something like that. What's wrong with your springs?

It sags to one side by about an inch or two. I have tried everything loosening the brackets and bolts to see if it was frozen but nothing. The only thing I can think is either one spring is rusted together and won't flex properly or more likely the springs are mismatched either way it's going to be less than $100 to replace all the running gear and the added confidence of new gear is worth more than that.

[Bobbie Mayer]

Mine was the bracket, luckily. Yes, good to get new stuff and be sure.

[Rpryor3]

I'm thinking if the dry weight is around 800 say 1000 just to be safe then 2000 or 2500 should be good. Don't see how I would add 1000 lbs or more of cargo. I am afraid of the spring being too stiff as I would like to take it off road and dont want it to shake apart.

[Bobbie Mayer]

Here's some info on sizing
How to Determine Correct Leaf Spring Size on 6 X 12 Utility Trailer | etrailer.com

[Perry J]

Originally Posted by Rpryor3

I'm thinking if the dry weight is around 800 say 1000 just to be safe then 2000 or 2500 should be good. Don't see how I would add 1000 lbs or more of cargo. I am afraid of the spring being too stiff as I would like to take it off road and dont want it to shake apart.

If your springs are to stiff your trailer will not have enough weight for them to do any good.

[Eddie Longest]

Ray
The empty shell (no floor) and frame weigh about 800#. At least 100# is below the springs. Make sure you replace your spring and shakle bushings. Springs normally come with new bushings. E- trailer sells the bushings for your shakle. My trailer had bronze shakle bushings but I only found plastic replacements.
Eddie