Hanger Kit and Determining Tire Size for Converting from Single Axle to Tandem Axle

Question:

What good is this chart when changing from single axle to a tandem setup or building a trailer? I have two D35 Dexter Axels. Im converting a 6x12 single axle to a tandem setup. The axles already have the springs mounted on them. The springs are 24.25 inches eye to eye center of eye. Im trying to figure out what Hangers to get. Trying to make a car/ATV hauler. Need advice on tire and wheel size. U-Haul 12 foot car hauler uses 14inch their trailer is wider than my six foot width. Need to know what you suggest from a person THAT KNOWS, NOT SOMEONE THATS NEW. I SAY THIS BECAUSE I CALLED YOU AND TALKED TO A REPRESENTATIVE AND SHE TRIED VERY HARD TO HELP ME. BUT REALLY HAD NO CLUE OF WHAT I WAS ASKING. My needs are 1 Hangers / tandem kit to fit my four leaf 25.25 center to center of eye springs. 2 wheels and tires. Please make suggestions keeping in mind I need to keep center of gravity low but still need adequate clearance for the tandem setup and will be using it at times off-road to haul a side by side. The hanger length options are confusing me. I think a normal tandem setup to fit my springs would be fine. Please educate me. Thanks for your time.

asked by: Byron M

Helpful Expert Reply:

The chart you're referring to (Which I've attached) is to help you determine where to locate the axles on your trailer when either adding an axle or building a trailer. It can help you find where to move your existing axle and placement of the new axle. The formula is used to make sure your trailer's tongue weight is 10 percent of it's total weight. It's not going to help you determine the hangers you need. The chart is also just a guide to help. The only way to really find the exact placement for your trailer is to mock it up.

The most common hanger kits are # APT3 and # APT5. The only difference is the hanger length and which you choose depends on how much clearance you need between the springs and frame. You can expect the suspension to travel at least 3 to 4 inches and since you'll be using the trailer off-road I would give yourself plenty of space to be safe.

The correct tire size will also depend on the clearance of the trailer. You need at least a few inches from the inside of the tire wall between any part of the trailer and 4 inches between the tire tread and the underside of the fenders. You'll also want to choose tires based on the gross weight capacity of the trailer so they can handle the load.

A 14 inch tire like the Provider ST215/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range C Item # TTWTR21514 tire that has an outer diameter of just under 27 inches and is 8-1/2 inches wide. It has a 1,870 pound maximum capacity at 50 psi as well. You could pair that with the Dexstar # AM20352 with the bolt pattern 5 on 4-1/2 so you'll want to keep that in mind to fit your hubs.