Can I Upgrade 3,500 lb Axles to 5,200 lb Axles

Question:

Swapping 3500 lbs axle for a 5200 lbs axle? I was just wondering if I can do a straight swap out of my 3500 lbs axles to 5200 lbs axles? Im needing to replace an overloaded axel on my utility/equipment trailer and was wanting to do an upgrade to a heavier weight. I know Im probably going to have to get new wheels for the heavy axles but was wondering what tires Id have to get to be able to support the new weight capacity? Do I have to upgrade the springs, u bolts, and spring seats? Or is it just as easy as swapping axles and putting on a larger u bolt? Which u bolt would I need also?

asked by: Kyle

Expert Reply:

You can definitely swap out your 3,500 lb axles for 5,200 lb axles but there are a number of other things that need to be changed out as well. Your leaf springs can technically stay the same but if you're overloading the axles then you're definitely overloading the leaf springs as well so you need to upgrade there, and even then your trailer frame is rated for a specific weight rating so you can be within your 10,400 lb axle and spring rating but you could be overloading your trailer. If you choose to upgrade your leaf spring weight capacity I need to know the length of your leaf springs (center eye to center eye) to make a replacement recommendation.

In order to choose replacement axles we need to know your hub face and spring center measurements on your 3,500 lb axles (see attached). Then we can choose one from the linked selection that matches your specs.

The 5.2K axles have a 3" diameter so we need to use a larger U-Bolt kit like the Redline # APUBR-9. We also need to get you brakes, hub/drums, and tires/wheels to fit the larger axle and I have the following recommendations:

- Self-Adjusting Electric Brakes # TRU96FR (1 set per axle)
- Hub and Drum Assembly # AKHD-655-6-EZ-K (2 of these per axle)
- Karrier ST225/75R15 Radial Tire with 15" White Spoke Wheel # AM32680 (2 of these per axle)

If you can get me the measurements of your axle and leaf springs I can make some additional recommendations to finish out what you're needing.