Should Tandem Axle Trailer Have One Straight Axle and One Cambered Axle

Published 07/26/2023

Question:

I have a tandem car trailer with a straight front axle and cambered rear axle. Right now Im wearing the inside of the front tires and outside of the rear tires. Is there any reason the cambered axle needs to be in the rear? Can I switch it to the front where there is more load? Thanks!

asked by: Ted

Expert Reply:

Your car hauler should have identical axles installed on it so since one is straight and one is cambered I'm concerned that your front one may be worn out. This can happen if you're adding quite a bit more front weight to your trailer - ideally you want your tongue weight to be 10-15% of the loaded trailer for a bumper pull or 20% of the loaded trailer for a 5th wheel/gooseneck setup.

Check the weight rating for your axles to ensure they have the same weight rating and then you'll want to get a replacement axle with the same weight rating as well as hub-face and spring-center dimensions (see attached). If you let me know what all of these specs are I'd be more than happy to help you choose the correct replacement from our linked selection!

expert reply by: Jon G