Ways to Identify Axle Capacity of a Trailer
Updated 05/26/2015 | Published 05/23/2015
Question:
I purchased an old gooseneck trailer built by Modern Manufacturing of Beaumont Texas. It was built at least 15 years ago and possibly more. It has large oil bath axles w/ hydraulic brakes. I want to go to straight electric. I need to know how to identify the size of the axles. I know they are hayes as the plastic oil reservoir on the end has their name, but do not see any other markings. Is there a particular place I should look on these axles. They are at least 10k I would guess. Thanks!
asked by: David
Expert Reply:
If you check the plate of the trailer that has the VIN and weight ratings for the trailer there should be axle ratings listed as well. This plate is often near the coupler of the trailer on the frame.
Typically you can tell the capacity of a trailer axle by the diameter of it.
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
- 8,000-lb Axles: 3-1/2 inch diameter
- 9,000-lb Axles: 4 inch diameter
- 10,000-lb Or more axles: 5 inch diameter
