Determining Axle Capacity on 1978 Enclosed Gooseneck Trailer

Question:

Hello, I recently purchased a 1978 enclosed gooseneck trailer and am trying to determine the weight rating of the factory equipped axles. There are no identification tags on the trailer, but I did have it weighed at a local scale. It weighs 5920 pounds empty. The two 6 inch axles are made from 2x2 square solid steel, with formed ends for the 6 inch . The spindles use 1-3/4inch inner bearings and 1-1/4inch outer bearings. Each axle end is equipped with electric brakes 5 bolt mount, and the hubs are 6 lug. Can you offer any insight as to how I can determine the capacity of each axle? I would assume they have a minimum capacity of 5200 pounds each, based on spindle/ bearing size with 6 lug hubs....as well as the weight of the empty trailer. But Id like to know what you think. Thanks,

asked by: Brian W

Expert Reply:

Based on the information you provided in your question, the axles on your gooseneck trailer most likely have either a 5,200 pound or 6,000 pound capacity. As you mentioned, based on your measurements, at minimum these are 5,200 pound axles. And with a 6 lug hub, most likely they are not 7,000 pound (or greater) axles.

It will be difficult to determine if they are 5,200 or 6,000 pound axles, as both axles typically use the same inner and outer bearing combinations. For example, the etrailer.com Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly # AKHD-655-6-EZ-K with inner bearing # 25580 and outer bearing # 15123, are compatible with both 5,200 pound and 6,000 pound axles.

To stay on the safe side, if you are not able to confirm its rating, I recommend working under the assumption that they are 5,200 pound axles so you do not overload the trailer.

expert reply by: Chris R