How To Determine Trailer Axle Weight Capacity Rating

Updated 09/25/2017 | Published 09/23/2017

Question:

is there a number stamped on brake drum to know what the axle is rated at?

asked by: David M

Helpful Expert Reply:

There is not a number on brake assemblies that tell you what the axle is rated for, but there are ways to get an idea of the load rating. If you have the GVWR of your trailer, you can get a really quick idea of the axle rating based on that number and divide by the number of axles.

The brake assemblies can help you narrow down the size possibilities. A 12 inch diameter brake assembly is typically for axles between 5200 and 7000 lbs. A 10 inch diameter is typically for a 3500 lb axle. Other sizes are more difficult to confirm based on measurements.

The bearings will help you further narrow down capacity based on the numbers on the inner and outer bearing of your Hub assembles.

There are rare times when the axle will have the capacity stamped onto it.

expert reply by: Jason S