Components Needed To Build Tandem-Axle Lawn Mower Trailer  

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Expert Reply:

You did not say what the expected weight is for the trailer and the lawn mowers with other items like trimmers, gas cans, etc, we can only estimate the size axles, and springs you would need. The highest capacity axles we offer are for 3,500 lbs and measure 89 inches hub face to hub face. That is a bit longer than the 7 ft you mentioned you wanted.

You did not say if you planned on adding brakes to the trailer. If your loaded trailer weighs more than 50 percent of the vehicle you are towing the trailer with, brakes are always recommended. I recommend the Dexter Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes, part # 35545E-ST-89. This axle has hubs with a 5 on 4-1/2 bolt pattern, and has a 3,500 lb weight capacity. This axle also has EZ-Lube spindles for simple lubrication. The spring center to spring center for this axle is 74 inches. This axle has the electric brake assemblies, hubs, drums, bearings, races, seals, and mounting hardware included. I have attached a link to an installation video for this axle you can check out. If you decide on this axle, the 10 inch wheels and tires will not work. This axle works with wheels from 13 to 15 inches diameter.

For the axle with electric brakes the tire/wheel combo I recommend is the Kenda Karrier Radial Trailer Tire # AM10235 with White Spoke Wheel, part # AM20352. This is a 14 inch radial tire and wheel that has a Load Range D rating. This combo measures 26.14 inches diameter. They do not come mounted, but you could easily get them mounted at a local shop.

If you decide on an axle with no brakes I recommend the Dexter Trailer Axle w/ Idler Hubs, part # 35545I-EZ-89. This axle has the same 3,500 lb weight capacity and a 5 on 4-1/2 bolt pattern.

For you to be able to keep the wheels under the deck of your trailer bed you will not be able to consider building a low profile trailer as you mentioned. The height of a 205/65-10 tire like part # AM3H480 is 20.5 inches. With the added height of leaf springs, hangers, etc, and considering deflection, your deck will need to be considerably higher. When most trailers are built with the wheels under the deck, a taller frame is typically used, maybe 6 to 8 inches tall.

The double-eye leaf springs I recommend for these axles is part # SP-216275. These springs measure 23-1/8 inches long and 1-3/4 inches wide. I have attached a product review video for these springs you can take a look at.

The tandem axle trailer hanger kit I recommend is part # APT3HD. This kit includes the components needed to add the leaf springs to the trailer. For the hanger installation a certified welder should be used.

The mounting kit needed to attach the 3,500 lb axle to the leaf springs is part # APUBR-1. Since you said you want to install 2 axles you will need to order 2 of these kits.

If you decide to add brakes to the trailer you will need to run wiring from the trailer connector to the brakes. The trailer connector will need to be a 7-way that carries the circuit needed. On your vehicle you will need to install a brake controller that is designed for electric brakes, like part # 90885. This is our most popular because it is easy to install and operate.

I have added some helpful articles that explain suspension and what is needed, and also what is needed to add electric brakes to a trailer.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L

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