Can the Capacity of a Trailer be Increased by Upgrading the Axle?
Question:
My single axle trailer has a gvw of 2990#. trailer weights about 1050# I would like to haul my two utvs on it they way about 2700# together. Can I up grade my axle or what to do this . Trailer has 3500# axle under it now.thanks
asked by: Kenneth S
Expert Reply:
Since your trailer currently has a 3,500 lb axle, the restriction of 2,990 lbs max capacity must be due to another component on your trailer that doesn't have the that high of a capacity. This could be your coupler, leaf springs, wheels, tires, or the frame itself. If the frame itself is rated the lowest, then your capacity cannot be increased, but any of the other components does give that ability to increase weight capacity. The weight capacities should be listed on the individual components, just remember your wheels, tires, and springs will have 1/2 the capacity so for instance if your leaf springs are rated for 3,500 lbs like # e54SR then they will state a 1,750 lb capacity since the two sides combined will reach that 3,500 lbs.
If you determine your capacity is limited by a component you most likely can increase your trailer capacity by upgrading that component. Based on the weight of the two UTV's, I recommend upgrading to a larger axle, larger suspension and adding trailer brakes. For a universal fit, I recommend the Timbren Axle-Less Suspension - Spindle Only - Regular Tires - 5200 lbs # ASR5200S01 which comes with the suspension so no leaf springs are needed, but you will need to use a 2 inch square bar (not included) in the integrated holes of the assemblies.
With the weight you will be towing, most states will require trailer brakes, so I recommend the Dexter hubs # 8-201-5UC3-EZ and brake assemblies # AKEBRK-7-SA. Then you will use # 10-1-1 wire sold by the foot for the brake wiring and 7-Way Molded Trailer Plug with Junction Box # HS381-9000 to finish your wiring.
If you need more help, let me know.
Products Referenced in This Question
Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 5,200-lb E-Z Lube Axles - 12" - 6 on 5-1/2
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Hub with Integrated Drum
- EZ Lube
- 25580
- LM67048
- For 5200 lbs Axles
- 6 on 5-1/2 Inch
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- 16 Inch Wheel
- 16-1/2 Inch Wheel
- Dexter
more information >
etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 5.2K to 7K
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Standard Grade
- Self Adjust
- 12 x 2 Inch Drum
- 5200 lbs Axle
- 6000 lbs Axle
- 7000 lbs Axle
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- 16 Inch Wheel
- etrailer
more information >
Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension - Standard Duty - No Drop - 5 Bolt Flange - 5,200 lbs
- Trailer Axles
- Rubber Spring Suspension
- Easy Lube Spindles
- 5200 lbs
- Spindles Only
- Universal Fit
- No Drop or Lift
- Timbren
more information >
Wiring Kit for Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuators
- Accessories and Parts
- Brake Actuator
- Disc Brakes
- Hydraulic Drum Brakes
- Wiring
- Hydrastar
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/8" Long
- Trailer Leaf Springs
- Double Eye Springs
- 3500 lbs
- 1-3/4 Inch Wide
- 4 Leaf
- 25-1/8 Inch Long
- Painted
- etrailer
more information >
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