How to Pick Out Axle Capacity for Smaller Trailer

Published 10/11/2018

Question:

I have an old pop up tent trailer1961 that is now converted to a motorcycle carrying trailer. platform with wheel chocks and anchor points. I would like to install a modern axle on it. How do I determine what capacity axle to use? The trailer probably weighs 200 lbsold axle and wheels removed, and the total weight of motos would be about 1000 lbs. Thanks

asked by: Eric B

Expert Reply:

You are on the right track for determining the correct axle capacity. Basically it's just the weight of the trailer plus the weight of the cargo you'd carry in it as the minimum capacity you'd need. So 1,200 would be the minimum you'd need based on what you listed. I'd go with a 2,000 lb axle though since that is the most common lower capacity size.

You are going to need to measure your current axles in a few places to get the correct one as we don't have access to what your numbers reference.

You will need to measure from hub face to hub face and then from the spring seat centers. You will also need to know what bolt pattern you have on your current hubs. I attached a help article on how to determine this as well.

I also attached a link to a page with all of the axles we carry.

expert reply by: Jameson C