How to Measure for a Replacement Axle, Hubs, and Leaf Springs for a Boat Trailer

Updated 05/06/2025 | Published 05/02/2025

Question:

If i want to replace my entire axle including leaf springs and hubs on my boat trailer, what measurement do you need? Thank you

asked by: Richard F

Expert Reply:

Hey Richard! To replace your axle, I would need to know the hub face to hub face and spring seat to spring seat dimensions. I have attached a picture below to show you these. I'll also need to know the lug pattern on your wheels so you don't have to replace them when I recommend new hubs. I've linked a help article below that will show you how.

Do you know what capacity your axle is and do you have brakes?

For the leaf springs, you'll want to get the weight off of one side of your trailer and measure the leaf springs from the center of one eye hole to the center of the other. They tend to stretch out over the years with use and this is the most accurate way to find a replacement. I'll need to know how many leafs yours have as well.

expert reply by: Jerred H

Axle Measurement
(click to enlarge)

Richard

5/5/2025

Hi Jerred, The hub face to face is 65-1/2". The spring center to center is 54-3/8" I believe the weight for tge axle is 2200 pounds. It's a light boat trailer. Right now it has a u-channel axle with spindles, but i need to beef it up a little. The roads out here are brutal on trailers. The hubs i have now are 5 lug and center hole is 3-1/8. I'm not opposed to buying new hubs and wheels if I can't get a big enough tire on the rims I have. Tire size is 4.80-12.0 Thank you Rich

Jerred H.

5/6/2025

@Richard Thanks for the information! I am sorry but we do not have a traditional axle that is going to be anywhere near that hub face measurement. The only option I have for you is an axle-less setup like the Timbren item # ASR1THDS01. These have a 2,200 lbs capacity and bolt directly to your trailer's frame. You can add a set of idler hubs with the Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3,500-lb Axles - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased item # 84545UC1-EZ. If you want brakes, then I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3,500-lb E-Z Lube Axles # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K along with self adjusting brake assemblies # AKEBRK-35-SA.