Can I Add A Second Axle To A 2019 Magnum Trailer With One Axle?

Updated 07/24/2024 | Published 07/20/2024

Question:

I have a 19 cajun 1850v fishmaster bay boat on a Magnum trailer with one axle. I woud like to put another axle on the trailer. How do i determine the weight of the axle I would need to purchase?

asked by: Gilberto G

Expert Reply:

Hello Gilberto. It is technically possible to add a second axle to your trailer, but keep in mind that this does NOT necessarily increase the trailer's weight-carrying capacity. A trailer's weight capacity depends on all of the components that go into it: coupler, frame, suspension, axles, hubs, wheels and tires. You could add a second axle to a trailer that doubles its axle capacity but this does not ensure the other parts of the trailer, such as its frame or coupler, have that same doubled capacity. Proper trailer design does require engineering knowledge and unless you can confirm with the trailer maker that the frame has the capacity to support the increased load, then adding the second axle will not increase trailer capacity. It WOULD take some of the weight load off the original axle but not necessarily do anything more.

If you are set on adding a second axle, you will need to make sure it is identical in capacity to the original axle. There should be a tag or sticker on the axle that shows the weight capacity so if you find that tag you will have your answer.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Gilberto J.

7/23/2024

I understand it doesn't change the weight capacity. I have been reading that the trailer rides better and (for me) seems more secure with four wheels on the road instead of two. I will look at the axles and trailer information and see if I can locate another one or if i need to buy two new axles. What is the average cost of adding a new axle and/or adding two new ones. Thank you,

Jesse M.

7/24/2024

@GilbertoJ Yes, adding a second axle will make the ride more stable and comfortable. The new axle will need to be identical in capacity and length. Axles are measured from hub-face to hub-face across. You will also want to measure the distance between the spring centers to make sure that matches as well. To add a second axle you will need a new hanger/suspension kit, new leaf springs, U-bolts, potentially one if not two new axles and new hubs. Here is a list of parts that will go together to use as an example for pricing, just please verify that all of this will work/fit on your end: - Tandem-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for Double-Eye Springs - 3-1/4" Front/Rear, 3-5/8" Center # AP233-H248 - 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/8" Long # e54SR - CE Smith U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 3,500-lb, Round Trailer Axles - 5-1/2" Long U-Bolts - Zinc # CE23002 - Trailer Axle with Idler Hubs - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs e65GR