Will Overloading Trailer Axles Cause Them to Bend?

Updated 04/28/2021 | Published 04/27/2021

Question:

I have an axle on my food trailer that says max capacity is 3500 lbs. so with both axles that would be a max capacity of 7000lbs. However my trailer weighs in at 8240 lbs. can this cause a problem? I have noticed a curve on the axle and am concerned.

asked by: Arlette P

Expert Reply:

With you having 2- 3500lb axles your maximum capacity is 7000lbs evenly distributed over both axles. With the trailer weight of 8240lbs you definitely risk damaging the axles, suspension and other parts of the trailer.

Trailer Axles will sometimes have a natural curve in them but if overloaded they will bend more causing the tires to wear unevenly.

If you can get me the information off the axle data tags I can help you to identify the correct replacement axles. You will also want to raise the axles off the ground and measure the length of the leaf springs eyelet to eyelet as you will want to replace the springs to match the new axles.

expert reply by: Bud M