Upgrading a Dexter Torsion Axle to a Heavier Duty Option

Updated 04/05/2021 | Published 04/01/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Axle Beam with EZ-Lube Spindles - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs

(785)

$233.33

Front/Rear Hanger for Double-Eye Springs - 1-5/16" Tall - 9/16" Bolt Hole

(69)

$3.96

Front/Center/Rear Hanger for Double-Eye Springs - 3-1/4" Tall - 9/16" Bolt Hole

(298)

$12.52

Dexter Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes - E-Z Lube - 6 on 5-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 89" - 5,200 lbs

(227)

$694.41

U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb, Round Trailer Axles - 7" Long U-Bolts

(1998)

$69.98

Dexter Heavy-Duty Suspension Kit for Tandem-Axle Trailers - 1-3/4" Wide Double Eye Springs

(1002)

$215.04

Tamarack ST225/75R15 Trailer Tire with Silver Mod Wheel - 6 on 5-1/2 - Bead Balanced

(315)

$257.95

Timbren Silent Ride Suspension for Tandem Axle Trailers w/ 3" Round Axles - 10,000 lbs

(35)

$1748.48

Question:

I have a trailer with two 3500lb Dexter torsion axels. I’d like to replace them with a higher capacity axel. Are there any available that will bolt up and fit? The label says Dexter Axel P-16 SLR sn D 6671796 Thank you

asked by: Granville B

Expert Reply:

We would definitely be able to upgrade to a higher capacity Leaf Spring or Silent Ride set up. That being said, we do not carry torsion axles, so we do not have a bolt on upgrade available.

The axle # 8327820-EB would upgrade you to 5,200 pounds per axle, but with the spring seats being 74 inches from center to center, it is pretty specific as to what it fits. As you do not have any spring seats on your current axle, you would need to measure from center of your frame to the center of the other side of the frame where the center hangers # 28-5 and front and rear hangers # 115917 would be welded on.

The leaf Springs # SP-222275 as well as equalizer kit # K71-359-00 would also determine where the front and rear hangers would be installed.

The U-Bolt kit # APUBR-8 would then attach the axles to the leaf springs.

With the capacity being higher, you would also need to upgrade your tires and wheels to accommodate the heavier duty components. The Tire and Wheel set up # LHACK124 would handle this capacity and are rated for 75 mph.

If you wanted to forgo the leaf springs, hangers, equalizer kit, and U-Bolts, you can also switch to the Timbren Silent Ride set up # TSR10KT02. It would still need the 2 axles, but it would be an easier system to set up.

Please keep in mind this will all depend on the frame of the trailer as well. Upgrading just one part will not mean the frame can handle significantly more weight than before the enhancement. It is always best to have the frame upgraded with supports as well to make sure it can handle higher weight.