Does Weight of Trailer and Cargo Get Factored for Axle Capacity
Question:
I am looking to put an axle on a trailer that is home made. Does the trailer weight rating include the weight of the trailer? For example: trailer weighs 400 pounds and the boat for the trailer is 1500 pounds that sums to 1900 pounds. Does that mean a 2000 pound trailer axle rating is acceptable? or Does it mean that a 2000 pound trailer rated axle can hold 2400 pounds, which includes the weight of the trailer? I suspect the first example is correct, one would not place a 2000 pound rated axle on a 4000 pound trailer - so If the first example is true, than my follow-up question is what percentage should the total weight trailer and loaded equipped boat be related to the rating of the axle rating? Perhaps a 2000 pound axle rated trailer really can hold 2500 pounds and it is rated at 2000 pounds as a conservative safety measure. Perhaps a boat at 1200 pounds provides more safety in terms of weight and rating of axle. Thank you for addressing this inquiry.
asked by: Fred
Expert Reply:
Your first example mentioned is correct. The weight of the trailer and the cargo is the weight rating. So if a trailer weighed 400 lbs with a 1,500 lb boat you'd need at least a 1,900 lb rated trailer axle and a 2,000 lb rated axle would work great.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 6,000-lb Axles - 6 on 5-1/2
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Hub
- Standard
- 25580
- 15123
- For 6000 lbs Axles
- 1/2 Inch Stud
- 6 on 5-1/2 Inch
- 16 Inch Wheel
- 16-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 17 Inch Wheel
- 17-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 18 Inch Wheel
- 18-1/2 Inch Wheel
- Dexter
more information >
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