Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit Review

Beyond Specs: Living with the Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit

My aging tandem axle trailer, a trusty companion on countless trips, had started to exhibit a familiar symphony of squeaks and clunks that spoke volumes about its suspension’s wear and tear. The constant, unnerving rattling over even minor road imperfections was more than just an annoyance; it was a nagging concern about potential damage and safety. After over a decade of hauling everything from workshop supplies to camping gear, the original bushings were clearly beyond their prime. I needed a robust solution that promised longevity and reduced maintenance.

I stumbled upon the Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit while researching upgrade options for my trailer’s suspension. Lippert Components is a name I associate with RV and trailer parts, so it piqued my interest. My primary motivation was to find something that offered a significant step up from the standard rubber or nylon bushings, which tend to degrade relatively quickly in this kind of demanding application. Competitors offered similar kits, but the “Never Fail” moniker and the material description caught my eye. My first impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction; the components felt substantial and well-machined, a welcome departure from some flimsier hardware I’d encountered in the past.

This kit felt like a promise of a smoother, quieter ride and fewer headaches down the road. It offered a sense of relief, knowing there was a more durable solution available for a common trailer issue.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

The testing grounds for this suspension hardware kit were immediately apparent: the road itself, and more specifically, the less-than-perfect roads leading to my usual workshop and various remote field sites. I fitted the Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit to my tandem axle trailer in my home garage, using basic hand tools. The installation process was surprisingly straightforward; the included instructions were clear and concise, guiding me through the replacement of the old shackle bolts and bushings.

The immediate difference was palpable. On the short drive to the workshop, the usual clatter and rattle were significantly muted. The trailer felt more planted and stable, even when encountering minor road imperfections. I specifically tested it over a gravel access road, which typically subjects the suspension to a beating, and the difference was night and day. The typical jarring was replaced by a much smoother, controlled movement.

There were no immediate issues or surprises, which in itself was a pleasant experience. The kit integrated seamlessly, and the components fit as expected, addressing the problem of worn-out suspension components effectively.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and thousands of miles, including several longer hauls carrying significant loads, the performance of the Never Fail bushings has been consistently impressive. They’ve held up remarkably well across various road conditions, from smooth highways to bumpy backroads and even the occasional off-road excursion to a remote worksite.

Durability has been a standout feature. I’ve noticed absolutely no signs of wear, cracks, or stiffness in the bushings. The shackle bolts remain tight, and there’s been no discernible performance drop. This is a stark contrast to previous experiences with standard bushings, which would often start to show signs of wear or looseness after a season of heavy use.

Maintenance, or rather the lack thereof, is a huge plus. These Never Fail bushings are truly maintenance-free. There’s no lubrication required, and they don’t seem to attract dirt or debris. Cleaning the trailer’s suspension components now only involves a quick wipe down, rather than the more involved process of inspecting and potentially greasing older bushing types. Compared to budget rubber bushings that can degrade under UV exposure and temperature changes, or bronze bushings that require periodic lubrication, this kit has been a significant upgrade in terms of long-term reliability and ease of ownership.

Breaking Down the Features of Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit

Specifications

This kit is designed for tandem axle trailers with 1-3/4″ wide, double eye springs. It includes a comprehensive set of components to replace the original hardware: fourteen shackle bolts, fourteen torque nuts, and fourteen Never Fail bushings. The kit also contains eight shackle links, with four measuring 2-1/4″ centers and four measuring 3-1/4″ centers, allowing for flexibility in suspension setups. The Never Fail bushings themselves are constructed from a modified polyamide, a material known for its high durability, low friction, and resistance to wear.

These specifications are crucial for ensuring proper fitment and function. The 1-3/4″ width is a common standard for many trailer suspension systems, making this kit broadly applicable. The double eye spring design is also standard, meaning most trailers utilizing this type of spring will be compatible. The quantity of parts ensures that all necessary connection points on a tandem axle setup are covered. The modified polyamide construction of the bushings is the core innovation, promising a longer lifespan and reduced maintenance compared to traditional materials like nylon or bronze, which can degrade or require lubrication.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this hardware kit is to provide a durable and low-maintenance connection point for the trailer’s axle springs, allowing for controlled articulation. In this regard, the Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit excels. The upgraded bushings provide a significantly smoother ride by absorbing road vibrations more effectively than standard rubber. The elimination of metal-on-metal contact that can occur with worn bushings also drastically reduces noise and squeaking.

A major strength is the maintenance-free aspect. Once installed, you can essentially forget about them, which is a huge benefit for anyone who uses their trailer regularly or for extended periods. They are also self-lubricating, a property inherent to the polyamide material that reduces friction and wear. The only potential weakness, if you can call it that, is that they are designed for specific spring widths and types; if your trailer doesn’t match the 1-3/4″ wide, double eye spring specification, this kit won’t work.

The performance meets and exceeds expectations, particularly when considering the price point and the typical lifespan of standard suspension bushings. It offers a noticeable improvement in ride quality and long-term reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit is focused on functionality and durability. The shackle bolts and nuts are heavy-duty, likely zinc-plated steel, offering good corrosion resistance for outdoor applications. The Never Fail bushings, made from that modified polyamide, have a smooth, almost slick surface that is indicative of their low-friction properties.

Ergonomically, the components are designed for straightforward installation. The torque nuts require a standard socket, and the shackle bolts are appropriately sized to fit into the spring eyes and through the shackle links. There isn’t much to comment on regarding complex ergonomics since these are mechanical components. However, the consistency in the manufacturing of these parts ensures that they are easy to handle and align during installation. The inclusion of the different length shackle links is a thoughtful design choice that adds a small degree of adjustability for fine-tuning the suspension geometry if needed.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the material science behind modified polyamides, the Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit is designed for long-term, heavy-duty use. These bushings are engineered to outlast traditional nylon or bronze components by a significant margin. Under normal trailer use, which can include exposure to varying weather, road grime, and significant weight loads, I anticipate these bushings will provide many years of service.

Maintenance is practically non-existent. The self-lubricating nature of the polyamide means no greasing or cleaning is required beyond general trailer upkeep. This is a massive advantage over systems that require periodic lubrication, which can be messy and time-consuming. The only potential failure point might be extreme over-tightening of the torque nuts, which could potentially damage the bushings, but this is a general installation concern rather than a product defect.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit comes as a complete package for upgrading suspension connection points. The primary “accessory” within the kit itself is the inclusion of eight shackle links, providing 2-1/4″ and 3-1/4″ center options. This is a smart inclusion, as it accommodates slight variations in trailer suspension designs or allows for minor adjustments to ride height or suspension movement.

There are no external customization options or accessories typically associated with this type of hardware. The product is designed to replace existing suspension hardware directly. Its compatibility is limited to trailers using 1-3/4″ wide, double eye springs. It doesn’t integrate with other aftermarket suspension enhancement systems, but rather provides a superior replacement for the critical connection points.

Pros and Cons of Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit

Who Should Buy Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit?

This kit is an excellent choice for owners of tandem axle trailers who are looking for a significant upgrade in suspension durability and a reduction in maintenance. It’s ideal for frequent travelers, RV owners, boat trailer users, and anyone who puts a lot of miles on their trailer. If you’re tired of the constant rattling, squeaking, and the ongoing need to inspect and potentially replace worn-out bushings, this is a worthy investment.

Anyone who requires a highly specialized suspension system or operates a trailer with a different spring width (not 1-3/4″ wide) should probably skip this product. It’s also not for those on an extremely tight budget who only need a temporary fix.

For those considering this kit, ensuring your trailer actually uses 1-3/4″ wide, double eye springs is paramount. Beyond verifying that, there are no essential must-have accessories. The kit is self-contained for its intended purpose.

Conclusion on Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit

The Lippert Never Fail Dem Axle Suspension Hardware Kit is a testament to how focusing on durable, low-maintenance materials can create a superior product for a common application. The combination of robust hardware and advanced polyamide bushings delivers a noticeably smoother ride, a dramatic reduction in noise, and most importantly, the promise of long-term reliability with virtually no upkeep. While the upfront cost is higher than basic replacement parts, the extended lifespan and freedom from frequent maintenance make it a compelling value proposition for any trailer owner who prioritizes peace of mind and durability.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this kit to anyone with a compatible tandem axle trailer looking to upgrade their suspension hardware. It’s a practical, effective solution that addresses a common pain point with a high-quality, long-lasting component. If your trailer fits the specifications, investing in this upgrade will likely pay dividends in reduced wear and tear on your trailer and a far more pleasant towing experience.