Where Would Tandem Axles Install in Place of Triple Axle Trailer Setup

Question:

Hi Folks: I have a 3-axle, 21,000 capacity trailer that Id like to downsize GVWR to 16,000 Lbs, using 2 - Dexter 8,000 Lb axles. Whats the best way to go about it? Where should the axles be placed - lengthwise? Roughly how much weight reduction will the elimination of the 3rd axle bring? Do I need to change out the entire 7,000 axle or only components in order to go to 8,000? What would I need to order from you for the complete kit? THANKS! Note pics - Thanks!

asked by: Everett N

Expert Reply:

To place tandem axles in place of a triple axle trailer will require you to position the center hanger for the tandem axles exactly where the center axle of the triple axle configuration.

You can reuse the hangers and suspension you have now but it will require removing all of the hangers basically since everything will get shifted and some of the hangers won't get reused.

Unless you are trying to reduce the cost of tire replacements I don't really see the benefit to lowering the capacity of your trailer by reducing the axles. The manufacturer of your trailer decided that a triple axle setup was the best setup so that's what I'd recommend sticking with to be honest.

I also attached a help article on trailer axle placement for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C