Options to Upgrade 3,500 lb Axle on Trailer
Question:
I have an enclosed trailer that is rated around 2K lbs see pic. Ever since I’ve bought the trailer from the factory, even without a load the wheels always cambered in leaving from top toward trailer. I’ve used it several times between STL and DC and now that I’m back in STL I’d like to upgrade the trailer axle to 3500 lbs, hopefully to fix any issues and prevent the axle from being damaged in the future under loads above 2K. Face to face: 85” Center of spring seat to seat: 75” Wheels are 5 on 4 1/2” Spring width double eye: 25 1/4” Thanks in advance!
asked by: David G
Expert Reply:
Thanks for the photos, and while we do have an option for you, there aren't axles with the dimensions you have, you can still upgrade your trailer with what is called an axle-less system from Timbren. These are simply bolted or welded so you do not have to worry about finding an axle that meets any specific measurements, and give you a better ride compared to a traditional through-axle.
The reason for that is the Timbrens aren't connected by an axle beam so they work independently; so if you encounter a bump or pot hole on one side of the road it won't rattle your entire trailer. It also uses progressive springs which are shock absorbers that allow a much smoother, more comfortable ride than the leaf springs found on standard axles. There are 3,500 lb options for the Timbren systems, and you can choose from a straight spindle that comes with an idler hub or hub and drum with electric brakes, or a lift spindle that allows you to choose a separate idler hub or hub and drum:
- Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System w/ Hubs - Straight Spindle # A35RS545
- Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System w/ Electric Brake Hubs - Straight Spindle # A35RS545E
- Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System - 4" Lift Spindle # ASR3500S06 & Idler Hub # 84545UC1-EZ or Hub and Drum # 84546UC3-EZ
All of the hubs do have a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern so you can keep your current wheels, and while I know this isn't the exact traditional axle you were asking about, since you mentioned options I did at least want to give you the Axle-Less system to see if this was an upgrade you want to invest in, as it can make a really big difference in ride quality and you won't have the issues with camber or load capacity that you mentioned.
(click to enlarge)
(click to enlarge)
Products Referenced in This Question
Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3,500-lb Axles - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Hub
- EZ Lube
- Pre-Greased
- Standard
- L68149
- L44649
- For 3500 lbs Axles
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- 13 Inch Wheel
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- Dexter
more information >
Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension w Idler Hubs - Standard Duty - No Drop - 5 on 4-1/2 - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Axles
- Rubber Spring Suspension
- Easy Lube Spindles
- Idler Hubs
- 3500 lbs
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Universal Fit
- No Drop or Lift
- Timbren
more information >
Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension w Electric Brakes - Standard Duty - No Drop - 5 on 4-1/2 - 3.5K
- Trailer Axles
- Rubber Spring Suspension
- Easy Lube Spindles
- Electric Brakes
- 3500 lbs
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Universal Fit
- No Drop or Lift
- Timbren
more information >
Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension - Standard Duty - 4" Lift - 4 Bolt Flange - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Axles
- Rubber Spring Suspension
- Easy Lube Spindles
- No Hubs
- 3500 lbs
- Spindles Only
- Universal Fit
- Lift - 4 Inch
- Timbren
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Trailer Hub & Drum Assembly for 3,500-lb Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Hub with Integrated Drum
- Pre-Greased
- Standard
- L68149
- L44649
- For 3500 lbs Axles
- 1/2 Inch Stud
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- 13 Inch Wheel
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- Dexter
more information >
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