Replacing Torsion Axles with Timbren Axle-less System on a Trailer Used to Make Tear Trailer

Question:

I am looking at purchasing a 5x10 ATC aluminum utility trailer. I am interested in having the stock Dexter torsion axles on the trailer replaced with Timbren Axles ASR3500S05 and was wondering what would be involved in doing this? I am planning on building a 4x8 tear camper on the trailer chassis and using the remaining 2’ at the tongue end for a deck for transporting my motorcycle. I estimate the GVW of the trailer with the camper buildout, motorcycle and assorted gear will be about 2500 lbs. • Can the Dexter hubs currently on the torsion axles be used on this product? • Should I consider adding electric brakes and related items to this setup? • What else would I need to use the Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System when replacing the current torsion axles on this trailer? The dealer of the trailer currently has one turned over and can provide any measurements you may require to help advise me. Thanks a lot for your time.

asked by: Mark S

Expert Reply:

The axle on the trailer you are going to purchase is probably a 3,500 pound axle. To determine if the Dexter hubs will fit the spindles on the Timbren Axle-less system # ASR3500S05 we need to know the inner and outer bearing numbers stamped into the sides of the bearings.

They are likely going to be L68149 for the inner and L44649 for the outer. If they are then the hubs will fit the Timbren system. But I do recommend going ahead and getting brakes on the trailer because the laws for when brakes are required on a trailer are different everywhere you go so it is easier just to have them.

So in that case I recommend replacing the hubs with hub and drum assemblies # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K sold individually. And for brake assemblies that fit these hubs you can use # AKEBRK-35R for the right hand side and # AKEBRK-35L for the left.

You will also need to upgrade to a 7-Way trailer connector. I recommend using # HS381-9000 which is our 7-Way upgrade kit. For new wire you can use # DW04914-1 sold by the foot. The tow vehicle will also need a 7-Way and a brake controller if you don't have those items already. I recommend the P2 # 90885 because it is easy to set up and use and it is reliable.

Please Note the following on the Timbren Axle-less systems: The Timbren Axle-Less suspension system may require additional support on your trailer. If your trailer does not have a crossmember above the spot where you want to install the Timbren system, you may need to reinforce the frame. You can accomplish this three ways. First, you can retrofit the trailer with a crossmember. Second, you can build out the trailer frame. Third, you can use standard, 2-inch steel tubing to connect the 2 Timbren suspensions together using the built-in square hole on each unit.