Recommended Axle-Less Suspension System For Small Home Made Trailer

Question:

Hi, I am building a trailer to hold camping gear from scratch. It will be pulled behind a 2014 Fiesta ST. Because the locally available light weight trailers are expensive and flimsy I am looking at getting a local welder to build a frame for me. The size of the deck will be 4foot x 5. I expect the entire trailer, including the box, to weigh under 400 lbs. I also expect the camping gear packed into/onto the trailer to be under 300lbs...although I wouldnt mind being able to haul more like 700-1000 lbs when needed. Also, I would expect to use a 12inch tire. With all of that said I need help to determine the axle and suspension capacities. I like the idea of the torsion axles, not sure if the individual torsion stubs are ok compared to the full torsion axle. If you could recommend what parts are suitable for this application, leaf spring or torsion

asked by: Barry

Expert Reply:

I recommend going with an axle-less system. Due to the size of the trailer you will have a much easier time finding the right fit and you will not need to worry about the suspension like springs or hangers.

The system I recommend is part # A12RS440. This system is designed with a capacity up to 1,200-lbs and has hubs with a 4 on 4 bolt pattern already installed. I have attached a link to a review video for this system you can check out.

The 12-inch tire/wheel combo I recommend is the Kenda Karrier, part # AM35351DX. This is a load range D combo and has a maximum load capacity of 1,220-lbs at 65 psi.

If you need more lift for your trailer I recommend part # ASR2KHDS04. This give you a 4-inch lift for your trailer.

For this Timbren the hub and drum I recommend is part # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K . This is a 5 on 4-1/2 inch hub that includes the bearings, races, seal, grease cap, wheel bolts and lug nuts.

The tire wheel combo I recommend for this system is part # AM30861.