Tips for How to Identify a Trailer Axle
Question:
How can i find out the brand/make of my trailer axles? I have looked for a id tag and have found nothing.
asked by: Chuck
Expert Reply:
Depending on how the trailer was made, there will be a few spots you can check to identify the axle. First, if the trailer was pre-made by a specific company, you may be able to find this information in either the paperwork or on a placard somewhere on the frame.
Sometimes, the axle identity is stamped into the axle itself or into the hub if it was purchased as a complete assembly.
If you cannot find any markings or notation for the axle, you will need to look for replacement parts based on the capacity and dimensions of your existing parts. For example, if your trailer information shows that the maximum capacity of the trailer is 7000lbs, then you probably have two 3500lb axles. The bearings, races, and seals should have an industry standard number on the back edge which can be used to match replacements.
When looking for a wheel to fit your existing hubs, you can find out your existing bolt pattern by taking a simple bolt to bolt measurement. View information on measuring your bolt pattern at the provided link. The # AM20352 wheel you referenced will work for hubs with a 5 on 4-1/2 bolt pattern. With a capacity of 1870lb per wheel, these would be appropriate for a tandem axle trailer with a capacity around 3700lb when matched with similarly rated tires.
Tom M.
8/6/2020
can i put electric brakes on my boat trailer if i shrink wrap all the connections
Jim
7/11/2020
I have a 2003 24 ft exiss stock trailer alum,trailer 14000 lbs,plate says it has ( 2) 6000 lb axles you would think they should be 7000 lbs,they are dexter torflex and the axle is so rusted and pitted there is no number.I have called every mfg exiss,dexter etc all say just measure and be careful you may get the wrong axles( what a system) any suggestions,ideals,or what axle goes under this stock trailer,exiss says they dont keep files back to 2003 of what was put in trailer thanks
Travis L.
6/22/2020
I have a boat trailer that the axel hub went bad and messed up the whole axel. Stamped on back of hub is 34231. The axel measuring 74 1/4 center spring hole. The total length from tip to tip is 90 1/4. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
John
5/10/2020
I have a home made trailer. The axle came from a mobile home. I would like to change it over to a 15” wheel with hubs. Is this possible. Thanks
Products Referenced in This Question
Dexstar Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel - 14" x 5-1/2" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 - White Powder Coat
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Wheel Only
- 14 Inch
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Powder Coat
- Dexstar
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 6,000-lb Axles - 6 on 5-1/2
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Hub
- Standard
- 25580
- 15123
- For 6000 lbs Axles
- 1/2 Inch Stud
- 6 on 5-1/2 Inch
- 16 Inch Wheel
- 16-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 17 Inch Wheel
- 17-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 18 Inch Wheel
- 18-1/2 Inch Wheel
- Dexter
more information >
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Dawn O.
9/8/2020
I have a 1998 CNC 6 horse trailer I'm not sure what kind of axles are on it I cannot find any indication are you familiar with it I would like to change the bearings