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Can 3,500 lb Axles be Changed to 5,200 lb Axles and Parts Needed  

Updated 10/15/2019 | Published 10/14/2019



Question:

I have a trailer with twin 3500 axles. Is it possible to convert to 5200 lbs axles? If so what will I need? Thank you.

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

The short answer is yes, you can replace your 3,500 lb axle with a 5,200 lb axle. The longer answer is that while you can change to a higher-rated axle, that does not mean your trailer has a higher weight capacity. The reason is, weight ratings are determined by the lowest-rated component, which can be something other than the axle, like the trailer chassis, for example. So you would need to ensure via the trailer manufacturer what the lowest-rated component is.

With that said, in order to get the correct axle, you will need to know the dimensions of your current axle's hub face to hub face and spring center to spring center as in the diagram I have added. Here are the dimensions of the 5,200 lb axles:

- Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with E-Z Lube Spindles # 8327816: 71-1/2" spring center to spring center and 86-1/2" hub face to hub face
- Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with E-Z Lube Spindles # 8327820: 74" spring center to spring center and 89" hub face to hub face
- Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with E-Z Lube Spindles # 6340624: 80" spring center to spring center and 95" hub face to hub face

Along with these you would need a new hub and drum kit, either the Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly # K08-201-98 for the axle with the 86-1/2" hub face to hub face measurement or the Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly # 8-201-5UC3-EZ for the axles with the 89" and 95" hub face to hub face measurement. To mount the axles you will also need the U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb, Round Trailer Axles # APUBR-8.

Alternatively, if your trailer axle does not have those specific spring center or hub face measurements you can still add the 5,200 lb Timbren Axle-Less Suspension # ASR5200S01 which are simply bolted or welded so you do not have to worry about finding an axle that meets any specific measurements. The other great thing about this system is you can get a lift for ground clearance or drop for easier loading and unloading with the 5,200 lb Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System - 4" Lift Spindle # TASR5200S03 or 4" Drop Spindle # ASR5200S04. With this system you would only need to add the Dexter Hub and Drum # 8-201-5UC3-EZ.

I have added links to a number of video reviews on the axles, hubs and Timbren system for you to check out as well.

expert reply by:
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Kyle S
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