What Info is Needed to Install Drop Axle on Trailer
Updated 02/17/2026 | Published 06/10/2024
Question:
I have a boat trailer with 185 80 r13 tires on it can I switch to a drop axle to lower the trailer without causing a problem with the shackle bolts being too low to the ground
asked by: David R
Expert Reply:
Hey David, there's a pretty good chance you could but it really comes down to by how much lower the drop axle is to determine if you have fender clearance. Generally you want to have at least 3 inches of fender clearance. So you'd need that as a minimum unless you'd be willing to raise the fenders up.
To pick out an axle you'd need to know the capacity you need, distance between spring centers, and then distance from hub face to hub face.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Trailer Axle Beam with Easy Grease Spindles - 4" Drop - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Axles
- Leaf Spring Suspension
- Standard Grade
- No Hubs
- 3500 lbs
- Spindles Only
- 74 Inch Spring Center
- 89 Inch Hub Face
- Drop - 4 Inch
- etrailer
more information >
Continue Researching
- Search Results: 3500lb axle
- Search Results: leaf springs
- Shop: Tandem Axle Trailer Fenders w/ Backing Plates - Steel - 14" to 15" Wheels - Qty 2
- Shop: Tandem Axle Teardrop Trailer Fenders for Enclosed Trailers - 14" to 15" Wheels - Qty 2
- Video: etrailer Self-Adjusting Electric Trailer Brakes Install Guide - 2017 Starcraft Travel Star Fifth Whe
- Shop: Trailer Axle Beam with Easy Grease Spindles - 4" Drop - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Q&A: Does etrailer Trailer Axle Beam e53GR Use L68149 and L44649 Bearing Combination?
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: 6-Leaf Slipper Spring w/ Hook End for 8,000-lb Trailer Axles - 29-1/2" Long
- Shop: CE Smith U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 3,500-lb, Round Trailer Axles - 5-1/2" Long U-Bolts - Zinc
- Q&A: Torque Specs for etrailer Electric Trailer Brake Kit AKEBRK-35-SA
- Q&A: Torque For etrailer 12 Inch Electric Brakes
- Shop: Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 10" - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Shop: Spring-Eye Bolt with Locknut for Slipper Springs - 3-1/2" Long
- Q&A: What is the Best Grease for Trailer Bearings
- Q&A: What is a #84 Spindle and How Do I Know I Have One On My Trailer?
- Search Results: trailer hubs and drums
- Search Results: electric drum brakes trailer brakes
- Search Results: trailer brakes
- Search Results: lug studs
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Video: Measuring To Choose The Right Trailer Axle
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
on Trailer Axles
Jameson C.
2/17/2026
Hey David, how did things turn out with the drop axle on your boat trailer? Did you end up with enough fender clearance after checking those measurements? Your update could make it easier for the next person looking to lower their trailer safely.