Does Increasing Axle Capacity Increase Overall Capacity of Trailer

Published 08/29/2018

Question:

I have a 2017 Springdale mini single axle trailer it has a 4000 pound axle rating in the trailer it says you can go 442 kg of cargo which is 960 some pounds if I have the whole trailer waterfall water heater full and black and grey tank Im overweight by probably 800 lb the original trailers were Alpine Ranier I just purchased your tires and install them on the trailer do you recommend a heavier weight axle or how can I inspect the axle to see its condition the left side Tire wore out on the inside tread and where and both tires were wore down very quickly one trip to Florida and back

asked by: Randy H

Helpful Expert Reply:

The weight capacity of a trailer is more than just the axle and tire capacity. The frame of the trailer, suspension, brakes etc. are all parts of the equation that you need to consider. Your trailer should have an axle weight capacity as well as the weight capacity of the trailer. It is possible that going to a higher rated axle will give you additional weight capacity for the trailer, but the axle would have to have been the weakest link.

Easiest way to inspect your current axle would be to take it to a shop near you that can do trailer alignments and they'll be able to easily determine if the axle is bad.

expert reply by: Jameson C