Appropriate Axle Rating for Trailer Weighing 7680-Lbs When Loaded

Updated 08/18/2020 | Published 11/17/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 6,000-lb Axles - 6 on 5-1/2

(873)

$152.29

Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension - Standard Duty - No Drop - 5 Bolt Flange - 5,200 lbs

(125)

$1286.93

Question:

morning if my trailer is 7680 lbs loaded what size of axles should the trailer have

asked by: Terry C

Expert Reply:

A trailer's axles must be rated for at least the maximum trailer weight, its GVWR, or gross vehicle weight rating. This is the most the trailer can weigh when loaded. Naturally it is advisable to have some safety margin too.

The standard beam axles we sell have ratings up to 3500-lbs. Higher-rated axles are made, of course, but we do not ship them due to shipping size and weight restrictions. Two 3500-lb axles in a tandem axle set-up would not have enough capacity, but three 3500-lb axles on a triple-axle trailer would provide enough capacity plus a substantial safety margin. If your trailer is a single axle type then you would need to have that one axle be rated for at least 8000-lbs.

We also offer axle-less suspension systems from Timbren that bolt on to your trailer frame. These provide the trailer with much more ground clearance since there is no axle beam or leaf springs under the trailer. For example, kit # ASR5200S01 is a set of two suspension assemblies that together have the same capacity as a 5200-lb-rated beam axle.

Keep in mind that all of the components of the trailer - its frame, axles, suspension, hubs, wheels and tires - all need to be rated appropriately for its loaded weight. An axle will usually have a sticker or plate on it that indicates its weight capacity.

expert reply by: Adam R

Robert F.

8/8/2020

Hi I have a dexter axle for my boat and I bent it hit a rock it’s off by like 2 inch maybe 2 1/2 inch what’s the. Cheapest way to fix it is it better to buy a new one Dexter axle p-29 Model # SLR serial number 1787765 I believe thes number are right if I have too I’ll buy new axle how much $$$ thanks

Chris R.

8/18/2020

If the axle if bent it's really best to replace it altogether. I wasn't able to track down any info with that serial number. Are you able to measure the axle's hub and spring seat length?