Which Axle for Homemade Trailer

Updated 04/11/2020 | Published 03/17/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 6,000-lb Axles - 6 on 5-1/2

(873)

$152.29

Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension w/ Idler Hubs - Standard Duty - No Drop - 5 on 4-1/2 - 2K

(108)

$775.66

Question:

I recently bought a home built trailer, very well built but Im questioning the axle size for my use. It has 1inch straight spindles so i dont know if its a 1k or 2k axle. I cant find any markings on it. Itll carry around 1100 pounds consistently and on dirt roads and farms. So i want more ground clearance and big enough axle, hubs, tires and wheels to stand up. I want to basically replace everything under it with new springs and down. Should i go with a 2k setup or step up to a 3500? It needs those items replaced anyway, so i want to do it right the first time

asked by: Chad B

Expert Reply:

You'd be best off tailoring the suspension to the maximum weight you're planning on carrying. If you'll be carrying around 1100 lbs typically, I'd recommend going with a 2K axle/suspension. A one inch spindle is typically used on a 2K capacity axle, so that's likely what you have now. I'll link you to our selection of 2K capacity axles, some that include hubs. You'll want to choose an axle with the same hub face to hub face dimension and spring center to center distance (although spring centers can be ground off and replaced in a new location if necessary). If you need a different length axle, you'll either need to order one locally or use a Timbren Axle-Less suspension like # A20RS545 which includes hubs.

expert reply by: Mike L