Should I Use the Dexter Trailer Hub/Drum with 5 Lug Utility Instead of 8 on 6-1/2 Inch Bolt Pattern

Question:

Hi, can you tell me if there are any disadvantages of this hub assembly vs. a 6 bolt or 8 bolt assembly on heavy equipment trailer? Im having a custom build and they recommend these because it saves a lot of money vs. the 8 bolt hubs for some reason. Do I need to worry about tire blowouts or anything like that. Its a 14K trailer with 11.2K of payload available...my highest load will be 10K of weight. Just want to make sure these are good axles and hubs by the way Ill be getting your 7K Dexter axles.

asked by: Jim C

Expert Reply:

The Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly part # 8-174-5UC3 uses a very odd 5 lug bolt pattern that the vast majority of trailer wheels will not accommodate therefore this is a major disadvantage over the standard 8 on 6-1/2" bolt pattern. The 5 lug bolt pattern that the above uses is not the same as the common 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern if that is what you were thinking.

The minimal savings that you incur would be soon offset by the difficulty of find a matching wheel/tire. I recommend you go with a 8 on 6-1/2" bolt pattern like the ones that comes with the Dexter Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes part # 8327864-EB. Then for a wheel/tire, I recommend something like the # LHAXSO513B which is the Westlake Load Range G tire on a 16" Bobcat Wheel.

Goodyear Endurance ST235/85R16 Radial Tire # 724860519 with 16" White Spoke Wheel part # AM20750.

expert reply by: Conner L