How Long Do My Lug Studs Need to be on Dexter 2200-lbs Axles

Question:

I have a 2016 Forest River-Flagstaff 23LB trailer. I have a tire that rubbed a hole in the shroud in one of the wheel wells. The only way I know to fix it is to add wheel spacers. I have dual Dexter axles, 2200 lbs., model 09H SLR 13.0. Because Im looking at 1/2inch spacers, Ill need wheel studs that are 1/2inch longer than stock. Which replacement wheel studs should I order. Thanks.

asked by: Larry G

Expert Reply:

I'll start by saying that without knowing which hubs are on those axles, it's tough to know exactly which lug studs are on them, but I was able to research and determine that the studs are normally 1.8" long. Taking this into consideration, you're going to need studs that are at least 2.3" long to make up for the added space between the hub face and wheels. The Kodiak Wheel Bolts # K12WB2 are only 2" long, so these are not going to be sufficiently long enough.

I recommend using the Replacement Trailer Hub Wheel Stud, Drive-In, 1/2" x 2-3/4" # RG03-080 which are 1/2" wheel studs that are 2-3/4" long, so they'll be long enough to provide you with the extra clearance you're seeking.

With all of this being said, the rubbing of your wheel on the wheel well is something that is extremely unusual and would lead me to believe that there is another factor causing this problem. Additionally, adding wheel spacers is going to potentially effect your axle capacity and put more stress on these components since you're changing the way the weight is distributed-at very least you need to make sure the spacers are hub centric and not lug centric in order to provide the best distribution of this weight.

I would recommend examining your axle and suspension components to make sure that there isn't some sort of damage that is causing the wheel to start rubbing on this part suddenly. If you've recently changed the size of your tires on your trailer, this could also be the cause. At the end of the day, you can use the spacers using the precaution mentioned above, but I would make sure that there isn't something else that's causing this issue that will lead to other problems down the road.

expert reply by: Erik B