How Much Space Is Needed for Tires On Deck Over Trailer

Updated 06/01/2023 | Published 05/30/2023

Question:

Im looking to remove the old axels from my deck over trailer and replace them with new Tandem 7k axels. With that I will have to get new wheels and tire. I am curious if I need to add blocks to raise the trailer to clear the tires. From the deck to the bottom of the frame rails is 13”. The wheel and tire is going to be roughly 32”. What I don’t know is typically what the dimension is from where the hangers weld to the frame to the center of the axel. Do you have any information on this? Both over slung and under slung

asked by: Brett

Expert Reply:

I wish I could give you exactly what you want but there isn't really a standard or typically measurement for this that I am aware of. There are too many variables such as the thickness of the leaf springs, hanger height, overslung vs. undeslung, etc. That said, we do have a deck over trailer here on our property so I went out there and measured it for you, the distance from the bottom of the frame to the center of the axle was 6-3/4" which you can use for reference.

I recommend installing the axles and suspension first, then taking some measurements to see how much clearance you have. There needs to be 3-4" of space from the tire to the fender/deck for suspension articulation. If you need more space, there are hanger extensions you can use like the Correct Track Trailer Alignment and Lift Kit part # RR23QX.

I don't really recommend going as big as you can on the tires as the taller the trailer is, the harder it will be to load.

expert reply by: Conner L