Should Utility Trailer use Mobile Home Axles
Question:
Hello, I dont know what Im doing on here or if Im at the right place. If not Im sorry. Im pretty ignorant on here. I have a utility trailer with 2 mobile home axles. They look identical but the rims wont interchange. 14.5 open rims. One sets perfectly, the other has a gap and doesnt fit flush. We have been in the tire business Economy Tire since 1978. We have lots of mobile home rims. We have the different types of lug washers. Nothing fits up tight. Just curious if they make 2 different types of open 14.5 mobile home hubs. Thank you very much
asked by: Paul N
Expert Reply:
First, the most important thing I can tell you is that mobile home axles are made for one time use and should not be used on utility trailers; for that you would need an axle designed for use on RVs and to choose the correct replacement axle for your trailer you will need to know the dimensions of your current axle's hub face to hub face and spring center to spring center as in the diagram I have added; the other thing you need to know is the weight capacity of the axle you need, which should match or exceed the GVWR of your trailer. For example the Dexter Trailer Axle with Idler Hubs # 35545I-ST-89 has a 3,500 lb capacity and measures 89 inches from hub face to hub face and 74 inches from spring center to spring center.
In regards to wheels and rims you do need to match bolt patterns; if you take a look at the linked help article on measuring your bolt pattern you will be able to measure your hub's bolt pattern and find matching wheels.
I've added a link to our selection of axles for you to check out as well.

Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Trailer Axle with Idler Hubs - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Axles
- Leaf Spring Suspension
- Standard Grade
- Idler Hubs
- 3500 lbs
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- 74 Inch Spring Center
- 89 Inch Hub Face
- No Drop or Lift
- Dexter
more information >
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Bobby P.
11/23/2024
I have 5 utility trailers that have old mobile home axles they are 6000 pound axles and I converted them all over to six lug never had any problem with them. They range anywhere from 8 foot to 30 foot one has 3 axles that I haul my tractors and back hole on it weighing 15,000 lbs, the trailer weighs 3,000 lbs and with no problem.