How to Determine Gross Trailer Weight on a Tandem Axle Horse Trailer

Updated 03/19/2015 | Published 03/17/2015

Question:

We recently asked a question about replacing tires on our heavy duty twin axle horse trailer In the response, we were told there should be a plate on the trailer that lists what the gross trailer weight is. Is there a specific place on the trailer where this plate is usually located?

asked by: Jeffrey H

Expert Reply:

I have seen trailer capacity information at the front of a trailer near the coupler, on the inboard side of the left side frame, but it really could be anywhere.

If you cannot find it then I should be able to give a close estimate based on the inner and outer bearing numbers. You would have to pull off a hub to get to the bearings but with those numbers I should be able to tell you axle capacity at the very least.

Another way to determine axle capacity is by the diameter of the axle:

Typical Axle Diameters Based on Axle Capacity
1,000-lb - 2,000-lb Axles: 1-1/2" - 1-3/4" diameter
3,500-lb Axles: 2-3/8" diameter (Can have a 3-1/2" diameter, but rarely)
6,000-lb - 7,200-lb Axles: 3" diameter
8,000-lb Axles: 3-1/2" diameter
9,000-lb Axles: 4" diameter
10,000-lb Or more axles: 5" diameter