Can a Trailer Axle be Put On a Truck Bed to Make a Trailer
Updated 03/23/2015 | Published 03/21/2015
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Hello, so I am in the planning stages of building an expedition trailer that matches my truck, I already have a donor truck to use the truck bed and frame, which will be modified, since it is a truck axle I plan to remove it and use a straight axle without brakes. I also plan to utilize the trucks suspension as it will be a lifted off road trailer. It will mainly be used to tow extra camping gear and supplys, and extra parts for the truck. My biggest thing is I want something with the same bolt pattern as the truck which is 6/5.5, a Toyota 6 lug. Can I get a size like this and what weight class axle would you recommend? Thank you
asked by: Jason G
Expert Reply:
First, I am pretty sure you don't have to change the axle out if you are making a trailer out of a truck bed. You will want to check the laws in your state/area though.
The highest capacity straight axles that we carry are rated for 3,500 pounds which likely exceeds the capacity of the truck bed.
For a trailer axle that will accept a hub with a 6 on 5-1/2 bolt pattern you could use # T3584F-8974 with hub # 84655UC1. Or EZ lube axle # T3584F-EZ-8974 with hub # 84655UC1-EZ. Both of these axles measure 89 inches long, hub face to hub face and 74 inches from spring seat center to spring seat center.
If a different length or spring seat spacing is needed you would need to order a custom axle from a local tractor or trailer supply store. I also cannot guarantee compatibility between the truck suspension and the trailer axle.
Please note that if you were planning to use matching truck tires and wheels you will not be able to. This is because of the differences between passenger vehicle tires and trailer tires. Trailer tires are built with a thicker sidewall to handle more vertical load. You might be able to use the wheels as long as they are conventional steel wheels and not alloy wheels.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with EZ-Lube Spindles - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Axles
- Leaf Spring Suspension
- Standard Grade
- No Hubs
- 3500 lbs
- Spindles Only
- 74 Inch Spring Center
- 89 Inch Hub Face
- No Drop or Lift
- Dexter
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: trailer leaf springs
- Search Results: rv spare tire mount
- Search Results: trimax
- Search Results: primary wire
- Search Results: power distribution block
- Search Results: power distribution box
- Search Results: trailer breakaway kit
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Vehicle Lights
- Q&A: Recommended 15 x 6 Trailer Wheels
- Q&A: Replacement Fuse Holder for Fan-Tastic Vent Roof Vent w/12V Fan - Powered Lift - FV807350
- Video: Detailed Breakdown of the Dexstar Steel Sportsman Mod Trailer Wheel
- Shop: Peterson Angled LED Work Light - 2,300 Lumens - Black Aluminum - 12V/24V
- Shop: PingMaster 5000 Wireless Trailer GPS Tracker with WiFi Backup
- Q&A: Air Bed Mattress for Cab 2020 Ram Megacab
- Shop: Bright Way Trailer Breakaway Kit with 0.5-Amp Charger and 5 Ah Battery
- Video: Review of TecNiq Trailer Lights - Utility Lights LED Blue and White - TN99TR
- Shop: Bright Way Solar Battery Charger - 7.5 Watt Solar Panel
- Shop: Trimax Puck Locks for Trailer Door Hasps - 3/8" Shackle - Steel - Chrome - Qty 2
- Shop: Lippert Underchassis Double Bin Storage Unit w/ Spare Tire Carrier for RVs - 99-1/2" Long
- Shop: Folding, Bumper Spare Tire Mount - U-Bolt Mount
- Video: A Closer Look at the Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3,500-lb E-Z Lube Axles
- Video: What to Know About the LED Strobe Light
- Video: Complete Breakdown of the LED Strobe Light
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Video: Breaking Down the Optronics Trailer Tail Light
- Q&A: Do Trailer Leaf Springs All Have Bushings
- Q&A: Removing and Replacing Trailer Spindles
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Shop: Brake Controller
on Trailer Axles
