Recommended Replacement Idler Axle For Jon Boat Trailer

Published 11/18/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Idler Axle w/ Hubs - EZ-Lube - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 60" Long - 2,200 lbs

(419)

$328.19

Spring Seat for Typical 2,000-lb, Round Trailer Axles with 1-3/4" Diameter - Qty 1

(657)

$15.43

Question:

Hi, I have a Jon boat trailer that needs a new axle. A new trailer is about $600 so I dont want to go crazy. I have watched on of your videos and it looks like fun to try and install myself. It has 5 lug wheels and the spring seat width measures about 40 inches. Maybe 60 or so inches to the outside wheel. I would guestimate that the fully loaded trailer weight would be 1,400 to 2,000 lbs. Do you guys have something that would work for that or can you recommend somewhere that does. I really liked your videos and the fact that it is a complete package rather than trying to piecemeal the whole thing together. Thanks for your time and help.

asked by: John R

Expert Reply:

If you are replacing an existing axle, it should not be a very tough job if you select the right components. You can take a couple measurements to be sure you select the right axle for your boat trailer.

The measurement you want first is the hub face to hub face distance. You mentioned 60 inches and that is the hub face to hub face measurement for the part # 20545I-EZ-60-15 you referenced. You also said the spring measurement is about 40 inches. This is important because the spring-center-to-spring-center distance for all of our 2,000 or 2,200 lb axles is 48 inches.

If your springs do measure 40 inches you may want to consider cutting off the old spring seats and having new spring seats like part # TRSS175 welded in place. This should be done by a qualified welder.

The hub bolt pattern for this axle is 5 on 4-1/2. I have attached a helpful article that explains how to measure your existing wheels for the hub bolt pattern. This axle does have a weight capacity of 2,200 lbs.

This is an idler axle meaning there are no brakes included. It does include the bearings, races, seals, grease caps, wheel studs, lug nuts, and marine-grade wheel bearing grease. I have also attached a drawing that shows the hub-to-hub and spring seat measurements.

You will also want to check the other suspension components on your trailer and replace anything that is worn or damaged. I have attached a helpful article that explains trailer suspension and everything that is needed.