Can I Upgrade Trailer Axle From 3,500 lb to 7,000 lb Axle and Keep 14 Wheels

Updated 01/16/2025 | Published 05/25/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with E-Z Lube Spindles - 95" Long - 7,000 lbs

(800)

$447.75

Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 7K E-Z Lube Axle - 8 on 6-1/2 - Pre-Greased - 1/2" Stud

(326)

$169.95

Kenda Karrier ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire with 16" Black Mod Wheel - 8 on 6-1/2 - LR E

(2841)

$286.57

Question:

I have a 3500 lb Dexter axle on my RV trailer with 14 inch wheels.Is it possible to up my load capacity by adding a heavier axle and keeping the same wheel size.

asked by: Monty

Expert Reply:

You can add a heavier axle to the trailer but the rest of the components of your trailer may not be rated for a higher weight capacity such as the suspension components and wheels. If you go from a 3,500 lb axle to a 7,000 lb axle like part # 8327834 you are not going to be able to keep your wheels because more than likely the bearings in the hubs that fit your wheels will not fit the spindle of the new axle. Also the wheels are more than likely not rated for the 7,000 lb trailer weight. Since the trailer frame itself may not be rated for a higher weight then changing out the axle won't really give you a higher gross weight rating.

If you decide to upgrade the trailer axle to the 7,000 lb axle part # 8327834 you would need wheels that are rated for the 7,000 lb capacity like Kenda Karrier ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer part # AM32743B with a 8 on 6-1/2 bolt pattern. You would then need a hub that has bearings that fit the spindle of the new Dexter axle with a 8 on 6-1/2 bolt pattern like part # 42866UC3-EZ with a 25580 inner bearing and 14125A outer bearing. You would also need to upgrade the leaf springs.

expert reply by: Heather A

Joseph

8/26/2024

Do you make a complete kit instead of buying all the parts separately?

Heather A.

10/17/2024

@Joseph Yes we do have axles that come with the hubs and trailer brakes. You would need to pick out your own tire and wheel combo if you don't have those already depending on the bolt pattern of the hub. I attached a link for all the axles that have electric brakes and hubs. If you don't need a electric brakes there are also options with idler hubs. Make sure to check the measurement spring center to spring center as well to make sure you get the correct length.

Helpful Links

dept-pg-trailer_axles-tw-electric_brakes.aspx