Upgrading 4400 Pound Axle To 6000 Pounds

Question:

I have dual Dexter 4,400 pound axles on my 2019 Grand Design Reflection 285BHTS travel trailer that I would like to swap out for 6,000 lb axles and the Roadmaster Comfort Ride Leaf Spring Suspension Kit w/ Shock Absorbers - Tandem 7K Trailer Axles. Pictures of my axles and springs are included below. Q: What 6,000 pound axle do I need to order? Q: Will the Roadmaster Comfort Ride Leaf Spring Suspension Kit w/ Shock Absorbers - Tandem 7K Trailer Axles work in for this application? Thank you.

asked by: Tod H

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you. I suggest going with the Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with E-Z Lube Spindles - 86-1/2" Long - 6,000 lbs # 8327826 and the Roadmaster Comfort Ride Leaf Spring Suspension Kit w/ Shocks - Tandem 8K, 3-1/2" Axles # RM-2470-2580. These will work with the Dexter axle.

You could do this however, it might not be a good idea. Increasing the capacity of your trailer's suspension will not increase the trailer's capacity. The frame and other parts may be rated lower than 6000 pounds and will not be able to hold extra weight and if over-loaded will be damaged. So you won't be able to load it heavier, that will cause the suspension to ride rougher because it is designed for more weight than what you can load on it so it will not flex and you might not like the results.

expert reply by: David B