Converting MH to Commercial Drums

[MillWeld]

I'm resurrecting this old thread because of big changes.

I bought 2 AL-KO 5200# axles with 6 lugs on a 5.5 inch pattern off Craigslist. They have good brakes and need only seals and bearings repacked. These will replace the MH axles. I have questions about springs, hangers and tires.

1. I can buy 25.25 or 26 inch leaf springs from e-trailer and I am trying to decide which. My current mono-leaf spring measures 25 5/8inch and since they are used they may be permanently bent so is is safe to assume that 25.25 is the best replacement?

2. A rear spring hanger has a very elongated hole. To replace this is it just a matter of grinding it off and re-welding a replacement? I'm concerned about drawing the frame since I will be welding on the bottom of 2 x 6 channel iron. Welding tips welcome.

3. I'm trying to decide on the rim and tire size that will fit without the front and rear tire contacting each other. My axles are just shy of 34 inches apart. (The current 8 x 14.5 inch tires have 5.75 inches of clearance between the front and rear tire.) Should I go with a 15 or 16 inch rim? Will 16s allow clearance between front and rear tires?

 

[Diamondpilot]

I personally would order both springs and return the not used set or better yet take off your old springs and take them to a camper/RV dealer. They will have the springs in stock and you can compare what you have.

For 5,200# axles you need 15" wheels. I run 225/75/15 on all my 5,200# and 6,000# alxed trailers.

Chris