Parts Needed For Attaching 2nd Axle On a Boat Trailer With Tandem Axle Hangers and Only One Axle

Question:

Hello, Bought a used boat trailer, comes with one 73/58 axle with eye springs, set in the back of the frame, the frame has brackets to set another axle in the front *see red circles in pictures*. The brackets holding the springs and the empty ones are 24 inches apart. Should I go with a second axle with eye springs or can I use a slipper spring for the new front axle? What size of springs and parts would I need? Thanks

asked by: Hector B

Expert Reply:

You will need to add a second axle with double eyes springs to your trailer. There is no way to attach slipper spring on one axle with a double eye on the 2nd axle. As for parts you can use a kit like the Dexter Heavy-Duty Suspension Kit # K71-359-00 to attach on your existing hangers. You will most likely need springs like the 3-Leaf Double-Eye Spring # e53SR which is 20-3/8" long from center eye to center eye. This would be the correct size if you measured 24" from center of mounting hole to center of mounting hole on the hangers. If you measured in between the hangers or another way please let me know the mounting hole to mounting hole measurement as well as the weight capacity for the trailer.

Our closest axle to yours is the Dexter # 20545I-EZ-72-15 which has a 72" hub face and 58" spring center bolt pattern. This axle includes an idler hubs with a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern.

You may need to reposition the hanger assembly on your trailer after adding the 2nd axle. This will help to ensure you do not remove to much tongue weight from the trailer and cause trailer sway issues when towing. I have linked an article below about axle placement for you to review which will help you determine if the assemble will need moved.

expert reply by: Bud M