Choosing The Right Replacement Boat Trailer Axle

Updated 12/22/2020 | Published 12/19/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Idler Axle w/ Idler Hubs - EZ-Lube - 4 on 4 Bolt Pattern - 60" Long - 2,000 lbs

(410)

$269.76

Dexter Trailer Axle with Idler Hubs - 4 on 4 Bolt Pattern - 60" Long - 2,000 lbs

(410)

$278.82

Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension w/ Idler Hubs - Standard Duty - No Drop - 4 on 4 - 1,200 lbs

(112)

$967.03

Kenda 5.70-8 Bias Trailer Tire with 8" White Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range C

(7581)

$68.19

3-Leaf Slipper Spring w/ Radius End for 1,500-lb Trailer Axles - 24-5/8" Long

(634)

$37.64

Question:

I have a 1981 Cox boat trailer that is rated for 1000#. I would like to replace the galvanized axle, hubs, leaf springs, wheels and tires to a 1500# system. The axle is 58 hf to hf and 48 inch sc to sc. The slipper springs are 24inch bolt to bolt and have a open end C on one end. The hubs are 4 bolts but would like to change to 5 bolt hub. I currently have 12 bias tires and would like to change them to radial tires so i can do long distance highway driving towing a classic Boston Whaler 15 foot boat. What would you suggets for replacement parts?

asked by: Patty F

Expert Reply:

One thing to note, when picking the right trailer axle there can be a bit larger of a measurement when taking the Hub Face to Hub Face measurement, but the spring center to spring center measurement needs to be spot on. That being said, you could use this axle # 20440I-ST-60 or this axle # 20440I-EZ-60 which are both 60 inches long. So depending on what the offset of your wheels are, you may have them sticking out a bit farther than usual. The distance between the spring centers however, are 48 inches which is what you need.

Two issues with this axle is that it has a 4 on 4 bolt pattern and I know you're wanting to go with a 5 lug. Also, it is rated for more than what you're looking for, 2,000 lbs. If you plan on putting more weight on the trailer, you need to figure out what the frame is rated for. We cannot load a trailer up heavier than what the frame is rated for even if the axle is strong enough to support. If the trailer frame can handle that amount of weight you could go with this axle.

After scraping our site for you, I could not provide you with a 1,500 lb axle with the correct measurements. One other option you have is to go with an axle-less set up. The Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System # A12RS440. All of these options will work for you, but to decide you need to figure out how much weight your trailer frame can handle. Usually boat trailers can hold a significant amount of weight compared to how light some are, but it is always a good idea to triple check. If it can handle more than 2,000 lbs then go with one of the Dexter Axles.

Here are some leaf springs # SP-178275 and wheels # AM30120 to complete your new axle.