Will Standard Axle Give Trailer 4" Lift if Trailer Currently Has 4" Drop Axles

Question:

I have a dual-axle cargo trailer with 4inch drop axles currently installed, springs under. Ive considered the Dexter over/under conversion kit as I have double-eye springs thus it is compatible, but it would appear that if I replaced the axles with straight axles and moved the brake and hub kits over Id get roughly the same 4inch change in ride height upward without changing the spring mounting configuration and, at the same time, the axle beam itself would also gain 4inch of clearance against potential obstructions which using the conversion kit does not change. As the axles themselves are currently the low point under the trailer raising that appears to be of benefit. Am I missing something other than the fact that buying two axles is more money than buying two Dexter conversion kits, of course?

asked by: Karl

Expert Reply:

Hey Karl, you are correct with your line of thinking.

The Over-Under Conversion Kits like part # K71-384-00 for a 2-3/8" diameter axle is normally my go-to for increasing trailer height when the axle is above the leaf springs, but since you have a 4" drop axle the lower part of the axle will still be hanging pretty low.

By changing to a standard axle like the 3.5K Dexter Axle # 7359765 you were looking at will naturally life your trailer 4" as well as increase the clearance for your axles - although there is a bit more cost involved in this option. Since it sounds like a main concern of yours is ground clearance I recommend swapping out the axles. To do this you'll want to make sure the weight rating, hub-face, and spring-center dimensions all match what you currently have (see attached for dimensions). The Axle I referenced above is rated for 3,500 lbs and has 95" hub-face and 80" spring-center dimensions so if that matches what you have this is a great option for you.

expert reply by: Jon G