Converting an Enclosed Trailer from a Single Axle to a Tandem Axle

Question

Question:

Enclosed cargo trailer. I recently purchased an enclosed cargo trailer that has a single axle. Is there a possibility of converting this into a tandem axle trailer? And would I have to move the existing axle in order to do this? Would this be really expensive?

asked by: Neal C

0

Expert Reply:

You can convert a single axle trailer to a tandem axle but it's more extensive than just putting the extra axle on there. The current axle does need to be repositioned for proper tongue weight. You will also need to cut off the current hangers since the hanger spacing will not be the same. I've attached a chart that you can use to determine the axle placement.

You'll need to the axle's weight capacity and diameter as well as the length and type of springs. Then we can determine exactly which parts you'll need to complete the job.

You'll also need to replace the fenders with tandem axle fenders which we do not carry.

I've attached some links to our selection of parts that you'll need as well.

expert reply by: Charles S

0

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Answer 1

Installing a 4,000 lb capacity leaf spring on a trailer with a 3,500 lb capacity axle will make the suspension stiffer which could then in turn minimize the risk of the axle contacting the frame. However, this is not what I recommend to fix your…

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Answer 2

For a trailer tire, the narrowest option rim for any given tire is going to be the best option. For a 205/75-15, the best option would be a 5 inch rim. The reason that narrower is better is because it provides more support for the tire. Since trailer…

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Answer 3

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 4

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

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Answer 5

According to Blue Ox, it'll take an experienced installer about 4 to 5 hours to complete the installation of their #BX1128 Base Plate Kit on a 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The install isn't what I'd call super-difficult, but the installation…

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Answer 6

Hi Paul, you’re definitely on the right track here, and I can help you narrow this down with confidence. With your tandem 3,500 lb Dexter axles and 33 inch spacing, both the Dexter EZ Flex part #K71-652-00 and the Lippert Road Armor part #LC53CK are…

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Answer 7

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 8

Hey Bryan, that's a good question. The pricing can definitely be misleading, but I wouldn't use it to judge the quality of the tire. A lot of that comes down to promotions, inventory, and whether you're looking at a tire by itself or…

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Answer 9

The 5.30-12 tires, being wider, are going to make more contact with the road. This means that the noise, and heat build up will be higher than a 4.80-12 tire but the rolling resistance will actually be less because the tire is larger diameter. The…

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Answer 10

It sounds like you are speaking of the wires for the brake magnets. If this is correct, you will need to connect one of the wires to the brake controller output wire on your trailer connector and the other wire will need to be grounded to a clean…

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Answer 11

You can use leaf springs that are rated higher than the axle without any issues as long as they measure the correct measurement for your trailer. For example the 6-leaf double eye spring for 7,000 lb axles part #e64SR measures 24-7/8" eye to…

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Answer 12

The #84 spindle is just a common way to identify the spindle dimensions typically used for 3,500 lb axles. So instead of listing out the parts, people can just say they have #84 spindles and it's easier to know what fits it. The CE Smith Trailer…

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Converting an Enclosed Trailer from a Single Axle to a Tandem Axle

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