Determining Weight Capacity of Shoreland'r Boat Trailer to Pick Out Brake Components
Question:
My single axle Shorelander boat trailer doesnt have a readable vin plate anymore so I cant tell what the axle rating is. Its just barely long enough to pull my 94 20foot SeaSwirl SWL. The bolt pattern is 5 on 4 1/2. The 4 bolt flange is 4inch OC or 2 7/8inch across. It does not currently have any brakes installed. Without pulling the hub to measure the diameter, how can I tell what weight rating this is? I want to add brakes as it tends to shove my lifted 1 ton truck around when braking hard in corners.
asked by: Matt K
Expert Reply:
If you measure the diameter of the axle you can usually determine the capacity as that's mostly standardized.
Typical Axle Diameters Based on Axle Capacity
- 1,000-lb - 2,000-lb Axles: 1-1/2 inch - 1-3/4 inch diameter
- 3,500-lb Axles: 2-3/8 inch diameter
- 6,000-lb - 7,200-lb Axles: 3 inch diameter
Since you have a 5 on 4-1/2 inch wheel bolt pattern with the standard 4 bolt brake assembly mounting flange you most likely have a 3,500 lb axle but I can't guarantee that so you'd be best served to check diameter and verify. Sometimes also there is a sticker or plate on the axle that will have the capacity info listed as well.
I did attach a link to a page that has a guide that will walk you through the process of adding brakes to a trailer for you to check out that will be very helpful.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3,500-lb Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Hub with Integrated Drum
- Standard
- L68149 / L44649
- Standard Grade
- For 3500 lbs Axles
- 1/2 Inch Stud
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- 13 Inch Wheel
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- Dexter
more information >
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