Can 1 Independent Axle be Added to a Single Axle Trailer

Question:

I want to add an axle to my double wide quad trailer. Presently when I have both my bikes on it it is at max weight. I have bent the axle once and wish to add another axle to help carry the weight. Can I just add another single axle just behind the first axle without compromising the safety of towing the trailer. The axles would not be connected. This is what Karavan Company suggested. What are your thoughts?

asked by: Richard B

Expert Reply:

I think that the best solution is to replace the axle on your trailer with a higher capacity one. Otherwise you would likely have to relocate the axle it has now before adding a new one because the spacing between the axles has to be conducive for supporting weight and safety. This means suspension hangers would also have to be relocated by cutting them off and welding on new ones.

Going with a higher capacity axle and installing it in the same place as the old axle would solve all those problems. Though you may want to beef up the frame some. A trailer is only as strong as its weakest part so you would also have to upgrade the springs, hubs, wheels and tires, possibly the coupler as well. These are all things you would have had to do if adding a second axle anyway.

We do carry some axles, see link, but as far as straight axles the options we carry are limited. So if none of them have the capacity and measurements you need then you could either use a Timbren Axle-less system or you would need to order a straight axle to your specifications from a local trailer supply store.

expert reply by: Michael H