Choosing a new Axle and Wheels for Teardrop Camper

Updated 08/23/2017 | Published 08/22/2017

Question:

Hi I have a tear camper build on a 4x8 harbor freight trailer. This has 4.80x12 tires on harbor freight axle. I would like to upgrade to 14 or 15 inch tires and better axle. What do you recommend? Thank you for a rapid reply.

asked by: Rick

Expert Reply:

In order to choose a replacement axle you will need to know your current axle's capacity as well as its hub face to hub face dimension, which is 89" (A) in the example photo, and spring seat to spring seat dimension, which is 74" (B) in the photo.

From there, you'd be able to find the axle you want; I recommend getting a replacement that comes with hubs for a complete fresh start with your suspension system. Once you have the axle you want, you can concentrate on wheels. For example, if you went with Dexter Trailer Axle with Idler Hubs # 20545I-ST-60-15, which is 60" long and has a 2,000 lb weight capacity, the bolt pattern is 5 on 4-1/2, and you would use that number to pick wheels with the diameter you want as well as their corresponding tires.

I've added a link to a video review of this axle for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Kyle S