Can a 3,500LB Trailer Axle Be Used To Replace a Dexter 3,000LB Axle On a Tandem Axle Travel Trailer?

Question:

Hi. Im looking to replace one axle beam on my travel trailer. From the factory, it comes with 2 3k Dexter axles. However, I cant find 3k axles anywhere... only 3.5k. Can I replace just the rear 3k with a 3.5k? Thanks.

asked by: Joey

Expert Reply:

A Dexter 3,500LB Axle # 7359765 is going to also have a 2-3/8" diameter axle tube like your Dexter 3,000lb axle. This will require you to have different hubs as the 3,500lb axle is going to have a larger spindle. If the axle you are replacing has Idler Hubs # 84545UC1-EZ that is all you will need. Otherwise if your axle has electric brakes you may have issues with new brakes as the 3,000lb axles commonly came with 7" brake drums while 3,500lb axles commonly use 10" drums. If you can provide me with additional information about your particular axle and your wheel and tire size I can confirm if we will have something that will work or if you will be better off getting 2 new axles with brakes like our etrailer Axle # e52SR.

expert reply by: Bud M