Does Number of Trailer Axles Affect Trailers Axle Capacity

Published 09/21/2021

Question:

you have provided ways to calculate weight capacity of trailer axles, such as diameter of axle, metal plate on tongue, etc. My question is are the numbers you note per axle? I have 2 axle trailer and was needing to know if I multiply those numbers by 2

asked by: Michael F

Expert Reply:

If you had two 3,500 lb axles your trailer would have an overall axle capacity of 7,000 lbs. The individual axles themselves are rated at 3,500 lbs.

Typical Axle Diameters Based on Axle Capacity
- 1,000-lb - 2,000-lb Axles: 1-1/2 inch - 1-3/4 inch diameter
- 3,500-lb Axles: 2-3/8 inch diameter
- 6,000-lb - 7,200-lb Axles: 3 inch diameter
- 8,000-lb Axles: 3-1/2 inch diameter
- 9,000-lb Axles: 4 inch diameter
- 10,000-lb Or more axles: 5 inch diameter

Trailer overall capacities aren't always just the axle capacity though so keep that in mind as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C