Timbren Axle-Less Suspension System for a Tear Drop Trailer Build

Question:

Hello, I am looking at building a 5x8 tear trailer and I am interested in the timbren axle-less suspension. I have 31x10.5 R15 tires on my Jeep. I am wanting to match my trailer with my Jeep wheels and tires. I assume I would need the HD timbrens with the long spindle to accommodate the wider wheels? Below is the set up I was thinking about please let me know if this would work or if you suggest a different model of timbrens. For instance different electric brakes, spindle size, hubs ect.. I was also looking for an off road 360 degree coupler but couldnt find one. Thanks Timbren Trailer Axles - ASR2KHDS02 Dexter Trailer Hubs and Drums - 84546UC3-EZ Dexter Trailer Brakes - 23-27 driver and passenger side Dexstar Tires and Wheels - AM20504

asked by: Wayne T

Expert Reply:

Trailer tires are constructed differently than vehicle tires and you can't use one on the other. Trailer tires are built with a thicker sidewall to handle more vertical load where as vehicle tires are not. The wheels are not as big of an issue but the problem is that vehicle wheels usually have an offset to move them either closer to or further from the body. The vast majority of trailer wheels have no offset so vehicle wheels are not a good idea on a trailer.

If you go with Timbren axle-less system # ASR2KHDS02 then the gross trailer weight cannot exceed 2,000 pounds. Once you start adding body and floor components and add an interior you could easily exceed that capacity or have very little left over capacity for cargo.

That is why I recommend the 3,500 pound option with hub and drum assemblies and electric brakes included, # A35RS545E.

The way that you want it set up would make the trailer pretty tall. That will raise its center of gravity and you will have sway problems. I recommend sticking with smaller trailer tires instead of trying to match them to your Jeep.

I know this isn't the set up you were hoping for but its better to know these things now before you get halfway done with the build!

For the coupler a regular ball couple will work well since it will pivot around the ball at many different angles. Otherwise you might want to look at pintle or lunette ring type of set ups. These are normally seen on agricultural trailers. I have included some links that will help.