Troubleshooting Trailer Tires that Rub on Trailer Frame After Axle Swap

Published 08/16/2018

Question:

the trailer i have is 18 ft long, with nose its 23 ft. heavy duty to haul construction equipment. i replaced the 2 axles because they were bent, bearings and brakes. I put 4 new tires because they were very worn from the inside. After all that work the tires are way to close to trailer body and axle. tires are against the bolts and springs. if i drive it, it will create a burn and damage tires. what is my option. thank you

asked by: Joel

Expert Reply:

Sounds like you went with axles that are too short for your trailer. Your best option is to replace the axles with ones that are longer so that the tires stop rubbing. You might be able to go with a skinnier tire setup but I would need to know what size you have currently.

Sounds like the spring seat to seat dimension on your current axle is correct so if you go with a new axle you'd want to retain that dimension but for overall length from hub face to hub face you'd need to add how much length you'd need over what you currently have to prevent rubbing.

expert reply by: Jameson C