Recommended Trailer Axle Placement for Road Trailer Versus Farm Trailer

Question:

I have always wondered why trailer axles are not placed further fore and aft of the locations they are on road going trailers. Farm trailers have there axles more or less at the front and rear of the trailer. Which puts its load capacity all on the trailer axles and makes the towing vehicle just a pulling vessel that shoulders nearly no weight beyond the load being pulled. Ie..no tongue weight. Is it a stability function?

asked by: Terry M

Expert Reply:

It is a stability and turning function with speeds much higher than the farm trailers. The entire suspension system is also set up much differently for the function. It is definitely not recommend to setup your road going trailer like the wagon style farm trailers that have a moving/steering axle. At higher speeds and shifting weight that could cause a trailer and vehicle roll over.

I've attached some articles to help with axle positioning and suspension to assist.

expert reply by: Jason S