Do Both Axles On a Tandem Axle Trailer Need To Be The Same Length

Updated 03/06/2019 | Published 03/05/2019

Question:

I have a dual axle horse trailer that the front axle was bent and wearing my tires so I took it to a mechanic and had that axle replaced. The new axle is marginally shorter than the rear now. Will this cause me a problem?? Any advice is greatly appreciated!

asked by: Lisa L

Expert Reply:

Yes, there will be issues associated with using two different length trailer axles together therefore I recommend you replace the old one with the same dimensions as the one you just installed. If you were to leave the different length axles on the trailer you would have issues with tracking as well as irregular tire wear patterns.

In order to make sure you get the exact same axle installed you will need to take three measurements, hub face to hub face, spring center to spring center, and tube diameter. Once you have these we can then use them to find the correct replacement. For example, the Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with EZ-Lube Spindles part # T3584F-EZ-8974 has a 74" spring center to spring center, 89" hub face to hub face, and 2-3/8" diameter tube measurement which means it has a 3,500 lb capacity.

I have attached a list of our axles for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L