Which Way Should Bow of Trailer Axle Face When Installed on Trailer
Updated 11/23/2025 | Published 09/20/2019
Question:
Hello, The trailer hit something on one side and axle is bent looks like I need a new axle. I have a 2004 boat trailer single axle which seems to have the camber bend in the axle flipped opposite from a normal setup. So usually the camber bend faces up but on this trailer it faces down. The keel of the boat is very close to the axle, so for clearance they flipped the axle over. Does this make sense ? Both tires have some noticeable camber wear. Should I consider raising the boat a bit and using a straight axle ?
asked by: Jeff
Expert Reply:
Trailer axles are supposed to have a bow in them that faces down towards the ground. With the weight of the trailer normally this flattens out slightly and gives you the correct camber you need. Whoever flipped your axle should have used an over under kit like the # K71-384-00 to move the springs to the other side of the axle while still allowing it to face the right direction. Flipping them like they did is why your tires are wearing like you mentioned.
All of the axles we have like the # 35545I-EZ-89 are underslung so you'd need the over under kit like part # K71-384-00 that you mentioned to get the springs on the right side and give you the additional ground clearance.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Trailer Axle w/ Idler Hubs - EZ-Lube - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Axles
- Leaf Spring Suspension
- Standard Grade
- Idler Hubs
- 3500 lbs
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- 74 Inch Spring Center
- 89 Inch Hub Face
- No Drop or Lift
- Dexter
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Jackie
9/23/2024
Please explain: "...have a bow in them that faces down towards the ground." Is the center of the axle closer to the ground, or further away from the ground? "faces" is an uncertain term.