Where to Place Axle on Trailer for Proper Tongue Weight
Updated 09/26/2025 | Published 04/18/2025
Question:
I have a question about axle placement. Building a tear using your HD3500. I know the projected weight of the trailer. How do I locate the point for spindle placement?
asked by: Jerry
Expert Reply:
Hey Jerry, this is a great question but the short answer is that you want to end up with the axle location that allows the trailer to have tongue weight that is between 10 and 15 percent of the total trailer weight.
The 60/40 axle placement formula is a great starting point and does take into account the tongue of the trailer from where the trailer sits on the hitch ball. Please keep in mind that this is a very basic formula or estimate for axle placement. You would want to have 60 percent of the trailer forward of the axle and 40 percent behind it. Will this be an off road trailer?
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension - Heavy Duty - Long Spindle - 4" Lift - 5 Bolt - 3.5K
- Trailer Axles
- Rubber Spring Suspension
- Standard Grade
- No Hubs
- 3500 lbs
- Spindles Only
- Universal Fit
- Lift - 4 Inch
- Timbren
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Replacement Electric Brakes For A 2023 Brinkley Z 3100 5th Wheel With 7k Axles
- Q&A: Difference between KE68JR and KE28JR
- Q&A: Does the Norcold RV Mini Fridge w/ Built-In Freezer Work with 12V and 24V Systems?
- Q&A: What Hub/Drums Does Timbren Axle Less Kit # ASR35HDS02 Use
- Q&A: Can a Hub with Outer Bearing 15123 and LM67048 Both Fit Same Spindle
- Q&A: How Well Does the Eva-Dry Rotary Desiccant Dehumidifier Work in Florida Humidity?
- Q&A: Can a 14125A Trailer Wheel Bearing Replace a 15123 Bearing
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Article: How to Change the Axle on your Boat Trailer Without Leaving your Driveway
- Article: How to Tell the Weight Rating of a Trailer Axle
- Article: How to Measure a Boat Trailer Axle
- Article: Trailer Lighting Requirements
- Article: How to Measure for Travel Trailer and Fifth Wheel Steps
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
Jameson C.
9/26/2025
Hey Jerry, did you decide to use the 60/40 axle placement formula for your trailer build? I'm curious to know if it worked out for you, as it could help others in similar projects.