Determining Axle Size/Capacity in Pounds for a 1973 Prowler Camper Trailer

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Question:

I have a 73 prowler camper trailer and I would like to know about what size the axles are by pounds

asked by: Clark

0

Expert Reply:

The trailer will have a plate or sticker on it that will list the VIN number. The weight rating of the axle should be listed on that same plate or sticker. Also, the axle could have a tag or plate on it that will list the weight capacity.

You can also tell the weight capacity of the axle by measuring the diameter of the axle. Here is a list that will show the axle weight capacity based on the axle diameter:

Typical Axle Diameters Based on Axle Capacity
- 1,000-lb - 2,000-lb Axles: 1-1/2 inch - 1-3/4 inch diameter
- 3,500-lb Axles: 2-3/8 inch diameter
- 6,000-lb - 7,200-lb Axles: 3 inch diameter
- 8,000-lb Axles: 3-1/2 inch diameter
- 9,000-lb Axles: 4 inch diameter
- 10,000-lb Or more axles: 5 inch diameter

Those suggestions would be the easiest way to find the weight capacity on your trailer axle. If you cannot determine the weight capacity using the above suggestions the next step would be to measure bolt pattern on the hub, size of brakes, and bearing part numbers. With this information we could narrow it down to what size axle you have on your trailer.

I have linked all of our trailer axles to this page for your convenience.

expert reply by: Jackie C

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Answer 1

For a single axle trailer, you want the shackle strap to be able to move so that you have the spring deflection needed for your suspension. Angled like the photo or even almost vertical is fine you just don't want the shackle strap to bind and…

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Answer 2

The trick for hanger spacing is to subtract around 3/8 of an inch from the spring length (eye to eye) and then use that dimension for the hanger spacing on a single axle trailer. So for a 23-1/8 inch long leaf spring a spacing of 22-3/4 inches would…

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Answer 3

The Lippert Components Heavy-Duty Replacement Shock - Yellow #LC283280 is 8.625 inches compressed and 13.5 inches fully extended. Your current suspension may extend and retract slightly further but the shocks will be a good replacement based on the…

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Answer 4

It sounds like you have a single axle trailer and are curious about whether or not to put the hanger like the part #28-5 or a shackle in front on the trailer frame. We recommend you put the hanger in the front. The force from the bumps in the road…

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Answer 5

Depending on how the trailer was made, there will be a few spots you can check to identify the axle. First, if the trailer was pre-made by a specific company, you may be able to find this information in either the paperwork or on a placard somewhere…

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Answer 6

Because it can indeed be a challenge to find replacement parts for trailers like yours that are of a substantial age, your easiest route will likely be to replace the axle along with your hubs/drums/brakes. This way all components will be fresh and…

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Answer 7

Unfortunately, we do not have the 14” diameter x 2” wide braking assemblies you need for your trailer. I also did some searching online and could not find any replacement parts for you either. The only option I can offer you would be to replace with…

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Answer 8

You likely can change the hubs on your trailer to give you a more common bolt pattern. To determine the correct fit you will need to pull one of your hubs and get the bearing number printed on the face of the inner and outer bearing. If you are…

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Answer 9

The Dexstar wheels are still in use by a lot of folks and as you already identified, available for purchase here at etrailer.com too under #AM20208. As for advantage or disadvantage to swapping out the hub it is in large part a matter of aesthetics.…

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Answer 10

When measuring an axle to determine the weight capacity you'll want to measure along the actual axle tube. Anywhere between the spring seats will work fine. I also recommend measuring with a digital caliper like #PTW80157 to get an accurate…

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Answer 11

There really isn't a particular maximum trailer weight that is used to determine when brakes need to be added to both axles of a tandem axle setup. While I do still recommend checking your local laws, I am also not aware of any general laws that…

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Answer 12

I do have a few easier options for you to determine the weight capacity of an axle other than using the bolt pattern or the number of lug nuts. The problem with using the bolt pattern to tell the axle capacity is that an axle may have the a bolt…

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Determining Axle Size/Capacity in Pounds for a 1973 Prowler Camper Trailer

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