Using Wheels From Jeep Wrangler on Tandem Axle Trailer

Question:

I have steel rims from a 2017 jk Wrangler. I am rebuilding my trailer and want to use them. Im setting up for tandem axles with electric brakes. The axles would need to be 80inch on center and roughly 95inch outside. The problem I am running into is finding the axles that fit the 71.5mm center bore on the rims.

asked by: Cody M

Expert Reply:

I actually do not recommend using the steel rims from your Jeep Wrangler on your tandem axle trailer. There are quite a few differences between passenger and trailer wheels. This includes the amount of weight they are designed to support, their offset (how far or close to the trailer/vehicle the wheel is), and bolt pattern. As you are also finding, passenger wheel pilot holes are usually not compatible with trailer hubs. A vast majority of trailer wheels are centered on the lugs and not the hub's outer bore, so the center bore of the wheel only needs to be larger than the hub bore to fit (and not the same exact size).

We do have 95 inch long axles available like the Dexter # 7359765 which has a 3,500 pound capacity. The 95 inch length refers to its hub face measurement, which is from the base of one wheel stud to the base of the other. This axle also has an 80 inch spring center measurement (distance from center of spring seat to center of spring seat).

I have attached a link that will take you directly to our selection of trailer axles that you can look through. I have also attached a couple articles on trailer tires and wheels that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R