Recommended Timbren Axle-Less System for Trailer Used for Salt Water

Question:

We are thinking about using the axle less suspension on our oyster farm for our trailers towed behind a quad. They are pulled through deep salt water at times. How will these axles hold up in salt water? How sealed are these units? Will the salt water corrode the inner component of the suspension system? Can they easily be repaired?

asked by: Shaughn

Expert Reply:

The 400 lb Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System # A4WS440 has a standard black powder coat finish that does a good job protecting against the elements, but salt water will definitely be pretty harsh to this set so instead I recommend going with the kit # ASR400S02-G instead which uses a galvanized finish instead of the black powder coat.

A galvanized finish will definitely hold up better to salt water and to help extend the lifespan of this kit I also recommend to spray down your trailer with fresh water to wash off the salt water.

The biggest advantage of this system over a typical axle system is that the suspension system uses AEON progressive-rate main springs (feels and acts like a stiff rubber compound) so they should hold up much better to water than leaf springs would. If you ended up needing to replace individual parts that is possible with this axle setup.

In addition to the galvanized Timbren kit I recommend using a galvanized hub. We have part # AKIHUB-440-2-G-2K which has a 4 on 4" bolt pattern as well as part # AKIHUB-545-2-G-2K which has a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern. The inside of these will be sealed so no water should be getting in, however if you plan on using your trailers daily then it would be good to check them periodically just to be cautious. The Timbrens come with EZ Lube spindles but for your application I would stick with the standard grease caps.

Attached are some review videos that you can check out.

expert reply by: Jon G