What Is the Weight Capacity for a 3 1/2" Diameter Axle
Updated 12/22/2025 | Published 10/21/2024
Question:
So I have a trailer with two axles. I need to find out how much weight each axle can hold. My problem is that the width of the axles is 3.5inch but it has a 5 bolt pattern which seems to give me conflicting answers. The width of the axles makes me think it is a heavy duty trailer but 5 bolt patterns generally go to light duty trailers. Can you help me understand this?
asked by: Andrew L
Expert Reply:
Andrew, based off of the diameter of your axle (3 1/2") you have a set of 8,000 lb axles. I'd use this over than the bolt pattern, since you're looking to see how much weight they can hold.
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Robin H.
12/22/2025
Hey Andrew, did the 8,000 lb rating for your 3.5-inch axles line up with what you found on your trailer? Knowing how that worked out could help others trying to match axle size with weight capacity.