How to Determine Axle Rating on Unmarked Homemade Trailer
Updated 03/07/2023 | Published 03/03/2023
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Question:
If its a home built trailer and their is no Vin how do I find the weight rating of a trailer axle?
asked by: Tommygun
Expert Reply:
Without any identification on the trailer you can either check the axle diameter or the bearings and hope there is a common bearing combination. The typical axle capacity based on diameter is as follows:
Typical Axle Diameters Based on Axle Capacity:
- 1,000-lb - 2,000-lb Axles: 1-1/2 inch diameter - 1-3/4 inch diameter - 2-3/8 inch diameter
- 3,500-lb Axles: 2-3/8 inch diameter - 3 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
To be clear, this is the typical correlation, there is no guarantee it is what you have. I have also attached an article below with the common bearing combinations. Matching these up is a good indication of your capacity. For example, a standard 3,500 lb axle use a # L68149 inner and # L44649 outer bearing.
Please keep in mind, since someone else built this trailer there may be mismatched parts that aren't rated as high as the axle. You will be limited by the weakest component.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Replacement Trailer Wheel Bearing - L68149 - Qty 1
- Trailer Bearings Races Seals Caps
- Bearings
- Standard Bearings
- 1.38 Inch I.D.
- Bearing L68149
- Race L68111
- 3500 lbs Axle
- etrailer
more information >
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