Picking The Correct Trailer Axles
Posted by admin at 28 November 2014, at 23 : 58 PM
Trailer axles must be of the correct size, placement, and type if you want your trailer to perform properly and to protect the cargo you are hauling. They are the foundation of your trailer and absolutely essential. When purchasing a new trailer, you don’t want to cut corners and go cheap in this area. It will be the difference between a safe and dependable trailer or not. Many trailer manufacturers will cut corners in this area on size so that they are able to remain competitive in the marketplace.
The size of your trailer axles is going to depend on the size of your trailer. Contrary to popular belief, bigger is not better. Yes, I said it, and I mean it. Bigger is not better — Trust me, I know it. Too many people will fall into the trap of purchasing axles and suspension that are oversized for their particular trailer. Don’t fall into this trap!
So, what size trailer axles do you need?
The first thing to do is to consider your load. What will you be hauling? Add the weight of what you will be hauling to the empty weight of your trailer. If you have 10 to no more than 20 percent in reserve, then you are right on target. More than 20 percent will cause the ride to stiffen and become harsh. This can cause damage to your trailer and your load in the long run.
Maintenance of your trailer axles is extremely important too. Over time, different components will wear and with the roughness of today’s roads, an axle may even become bent. Inspecting and replacing worn components is required to maintain the safety of your trailer. You should always be proactive in your trailer maintenance. It’s miserable to be broke down on the side of the road!
A bearing lube system like those offered by Dexter for your axle hubs will keep your trailer running cooler and prolong the life of your bearings. A Synthetic lubrication works well in prolonging bearing life due to cooler wheel end temperatures. Over time, it can also improve your gas mileage under normal driving and hauling conditions. Bearings are often neglected, and by doing so, you’re just increasing your chances of a break down.
Proper Trailer Axles are the Foundation!
Trailer axles should be inspected at least once a year so that the hubs and bearings can be thoroughly cleaned, inspected, and re-lubed.
Your axles should also be checked for distortion. If you ever notice that your trailer tires are not wearing properly, then there is a good chance that your axle or spindle is bent.
You also need to insure that your axle springs are in good working order. While you have the bearings disassembled, it is an ideal time to visually inspect you spring and spring hangers. Leaf springs can become cracked and spring hanger bushings and bolts can become worn. A little extra time spent on inspection can really save a major aggravation later!