Can I turn my Boat Trailer Axle Upside Down to Gain the Clearance I Need?

Updated 08/07/2017 | Published 08/05/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(779)

$88.64

Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes - Easy Grease - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs

(225)

$495.81

Question:

Boat sits less than half inch from axel , hit a bump an boat hits axel. Dont sell a kit with 4 1/4 hanger.what size should I put in back an they say have to use shackles. Second they suggested a over an under conversion kit which would put my fender 7 inches over my tire. I wouldnt order it any way quest they think Im stupid just tak off springs from hanger an disassemble everything turn axel 180 degrees pull center pin out leafs an turn it the opposite way an now put springs on top of axel dont cost anything , but still puts boat trailer to high.so using a 4 1/4 hanger in front what would I need in back with shackles,an how much clearerence would this give me from boat to trailer

asked by: Allen C

Expert Reply:

Wow, your boat sitting just 1/2" from your axle is definitely a concern. You should have 4-1/2" of clearance for to keep your boat safe from bumps when traveling. I can understand not wanting to spend the money on a over-under conversion kit like # K71-385-00. But, it would not be safe to turn your axle 180 degrees and mount it upside down. Most trailer axles are designed with camber or a slight 'bend' in the axle that deflects when a load is applied, like axle # e43SR. This allows the wheels to sit perpendicular to the pavement and the tires to wear evenly when under load. If you turn your axle upside down, the camber will be facing the wrong direction and your wheels will not be perpendicular to the pavement which will cause uneven treadwear and other potential issues.

As far as determining the height of your rear hanger, it will depend on the hangers you currently have on your trailer. You will want to increase the size of the rear hanger the same amount that you increase the front hanger. So, if your front hanger is 2" and you are increasing to 4-1/4", that is a 2-1/4" increase. So, with an original rear hanger of 1", you would add 2-1/4" and get a 3-1/4" hanger for the rear. I've provided a link to the hangers we offer on our website.

In regards to using shackles on the rear hanger, shackling the 2 components together instead of bolting them directly allows for the necessary pivot of the springs. I've also provided a link to our selection of shackle straps.

expert reply by: Amy W