How to Determine Axle Capacity on Old Trailer

Updated 02/18/2019 | Published 02/15/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb Axles - 12" Diameter - 8 on 6-1/2

(1072)

$175.89

Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with E-Z Lube Spindles - 95" Long - 5,200 lbs

(784)

$448.30

Question:

Got a trailer the tag says dexter axle # 0213621, trailer has hydraulic brakes just wanna know what the axles can hold its 6 1-2x 14 all steel

asked by: Anthony

Expert Reply:

I do have a way to give you an idea as to what the axle capacity is for your trailer but I called Dexter Axle and they were not able to look up the number, "021362" that you provided due to its age. If you have a leaf spring axle then what you are going to want to do is measure the diameter of the axle tube. Once you measure the axle tube you can then use the chart below to give you an idea of what the weight capacity is. If you have a torsion axle then your next best option would be to give me the bearing numbers/spindle measurements (see article) as I could then compare them to hubs we offer to see if a weight capacity can be referenced.

- 1,000-lb - 2,000-lb Axles: 1-1/2"- 1-3/4" Diameter
- 3,500-lb Axles: 2-3/8" Diameter
- 6,000-lb - 7,200-lb Axles: 3" Diameter
- 8,000-lb Axles: 3-1/2" Diameter
- 9,000-lb Axles: 4" Diameter
- 10,000-lb Or more axles: 5" Diameter

If you want to upgrade your axle to a higher capacity or would just like a new axle that you know the weight capacity of then we do have several options for you. However, in order to recommend replacements I would need to know your hub face to hub face measurement as well as your spring center to spring center measurement. For example, the Dexter Trailer Axle Beam part # 6340624 has a 5,200 lb capacity, 95" hub face, and 80" spring center measurement but the spring center can be adjusted.

expert reply by: Conner L