Shorter leaf springs ?

[Menace]

I'm using an S-10 rolling frame for my project. I measured the existing leaf springs, they are 53" eye to eye. Can I relocate the shackles and mounts and use a shorter type of trailer springs ?
What kind of problems will I encounter ?
Thanks

 

[hotrod preacher]

you can use shorter springs...mounts can be bolted or welded on in the needed locations...measure twice-and then measure again (ya don't want to go down the road sideways b/c of a crooked rear axle-ya want it to be b/c of the horsepower!)
shorter springs may cause a rougher ride though, so ya need to be sure on the weight rating of the springs you plan on using......

 

[Menace]

Thanks HP. I learned early on to measure 2 or 3 times before cutting.

 

[dmw56]

Shouldn't be a problem but I think with the shorter spring you'll have a stiffer, harsher ride.

 

[Rev Tex Devlle]

Shouldn't be a problem but I think with the shorter spring you'll have a stiffer, harsher ride.

agreed , think about a car trailer,, bouncy,, but if ya know ya weight , you can use them, adjust for ride the best you can, i used a three leaf 2000lb car tailer spring on my front axle but ended up puting three more for the weight of the flat head, rides smooth on smooth ruff on ruff