Boat Trailer Tires are Wearing On the Inside Tread
Updated 04/23/2020 | Published 06/26/2013
Question:
I have a 2009 Trailmaster trailer manufactured by J.Q.Tex, Inc. and distributed by Vanguard. The model number is SMB 1616, body type is single axle, 2000 LBS. GVWR. And a shipping weight of 400 LBS. My boat and out board motor weight about 1400 LBS. The tires on the trailer seem to the right size and load range, but both are compleatly worn out on the inside after only about 350 miles. The ware pattern are the same on both tires , and looking at the wheels from back of the trailer I can see they are leaning in at the top and out at the bottom. My question is this condition the cause of my tire ware. I have never hit any pot holes,speed brakers,or something that would bend the axle. Anyway I am thinking about replaceing the axle. Should I replace it with a 2000 LBS. or replace it with a larger capacity axle? This boat and trailer were sold to me new as a matched set an should be compatible. Any suggestions or advice will be munch appreciated
asked by: Wayne S
Expert Reply:
Generally when tires bow out at the bottom, in at the top, that indicates that the trailer is overloaded. If you are within the 2,000 pound capacity though this should not be happening.
If the axle was ever flipped upside down, like to gain more height, that can cause this same issue. Axles should not be flipped because they have a bow in them. A flipped axle will have the bow facing the wrong way and it diminishes the capacity of the axle.
Also, worn suspension components can cause this issue. Have the trailer looked over by a shop that works on trailers or trusted mechanic to determine what, if anything, might be worn and in need of replacement.
If you go ahead with replacing the axle, you can go to a higher capacity but I would still stay within the original capacity to be on the safe side. A local trailer supply store should be able to order an axle. You would need to know the measurement from spring seat center to spring seat center and the distance from the hub face on one side to the hub face on the other side.
Also make sure that the trailer tires are inflated to the maximum psi as indicated on the tire. Under inflated tires can wear much faster and cause the tires to fail.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 6,000-lb Axles - 6 on 5-1/2
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Idler Hub
- Standard
- 25580 / 15123
- Standard Grade
- For 6000 lbs Axles
- 1/2 Inch Stud
- 6 on 5-1/2 Inch
- 16 Inch Wheel
- 16-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 17 Inch Wheel
- 17-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 18 Inch Wheel
- 18-1/2 Inch Wheel
- Dexter
more information >
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Ronald W.
4/21/2020
have a pontoon trailer,torsion axle.single axle.Tires rub against torsion arm