Can a Trailer Axle Be Backwards

Published 01/23/2020

Question:

How I have a custormer telling me that the axles are spun the wrong way because the wires are coming out the front of the axle but the left and right brake kits are on the left and right side. Brakes are working properly like it is. Will it hurt anything the way it is?

asked by: Keith

Expert Reply:

It doesn't matter as much which way the axles are facing but sometimes axle can be upside down. There is a bow in the center of the axle that should be facing up when weight is applied to them they straight out. If your axles are upside down the bows would be pointing down. If the axles are simply backwards then as long as the brakes are not on the wrong side of the axles you won't have any issues.

Since its sometimes hard to tell if your braking assemblies are on the wrong side of the axle because they will still function but not as well, I recommend to make sure the actuating arms of your assemblies are pointing towards the front of the trailer. As long as the braking assemblies are on the correct side you won't have any issues.

expert reply by: Heather A