Can I Use Two Different Length Axles on a Trailer

Question:

I had an axle replaced last year, but the new one was incorrectly made longer than the one it replaced by 1.5”. Does having a staggered stance affect tire wear or towing, or does it just look odd? Would 3/4” wheels spacers be advised on the other axle to square it back up? Or should I just leave it as is?

asked by: Michael A

Expert Reply:

There will most likely be issues associated with using two different length trailer axles together therefore I recommend you replace the older one with the same dimensions as the one you just had installed. If you were to leave the different length axles on the trailer you could have issues with tracking as well as irregular tire wear patterns. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend the use of wheel spacers as these place too much stress on the lug studs.

In order to make sure you get the exact same axle installed you will need to take three measurements, hub face to hub face, spring center to spring center, and tube diameter. Once you have these we can then use them to find the correct replacement. For example, the Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with EZ-Lube Spindles part # T3584F-EZ-8974 has a 74" spring center to spring center, 89" hub face to hub face, and 2-3/8" diameter tube measurement which means it has a 3,500 lb capacity.

I have attached a list of our axles for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L