Recommended 1-1/2" Square Axle w/a 49-1/2" Hub Face and 5 on 4-1/2 Lug Nut Pattern Hubs
Updated 08/01/2026 | Published 07/21/2026
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Hi, I have an apparently ancient boat trailer made or marketed by Highlander. I read a 20 year old post that said these trailers were made by Shoreliner. Its currently got a 3/4inch straight spindle axle with 5-4.5inch hubs on leaf springs. I measure roughly 49-1/2inch hub face. I cant easily make an accurate spring-center measurement, but it measures roughtly 39-1/2. Would this be the right axle and hub kit for me? Its got a single U-bolt diagonally across the old axle. see photo What would be the correct u-bolt or other mounting part? Thanks
asked by: Eric W
(click to enlarge)
Expert Reply:
It sure would Eric! The CE Smith Trailer Axle Beam with Studded Hubs item # CES84XR is exactly what you need for a 49-1/2" hub face. This axle comes with two idler hubs that have a 5 on 4-1/2" lug nut pattern so it'll be perfect for you.
The CE Smith U-Bolt Kit item # CE23102 is the correct one for the 1-1/2" item # CES84XR axle. If the spring seat holes in the axle do not line up, you'll want to rotate the axle and drill new ones. They come drilled at 38-7/16" apart. If yours are 39-1/2", you'll want to drill new holes on another side of the square axle. If you don't your tires won't wear evenly because your suspension will be off.
What kind of boat do you have?
You can add this information, along with any other questions you have, where it says Add Comment.
(click to enlarge)
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
CE Smith Trailer Axle Beam with Studded Hubs - 5 on 4-1/2" - 54" Long - 1.8K
- Trailer Axles
- Leaf Spring Suspension
- Marine Grade
- Idler Hubs
- 1800 lbs
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- 38-1/2 Inch Spring Center
- 49-1/2 Inch Hub Face
- No Drop or Lift
- CE Smith
more information >
Continue Researching
- Shop: Kenda 4.80/4.00-8 Bias Trailer Tire with 8" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range B
- Shop: CE Smith Trailer Axle Beam with Studded Hubs - 5 on 4-1/2" - 54" Long - 1.8K
- Q&A: Wheel Lug Nut Torque Recommendations for 1/2-Inch Stud and 12-Inch Aluminum Wheel
- Q&A: Could CE Smith Trailer Axle Have New Holes Drilled at 40 inches Apart
- Article: 5 Tell-Tale Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Trailer’s Leaf Springs
- Q&A: Replacement Hub for a 3/4 Inch Diameter Straight Spindle
- Q&A: Parts Needed to Add CE Smith Trailer Axle to Trailer
- Q&A: Are The Spindles of the CE Smith Trailer Axle Beam # CES84XR EZ Lube
- Q&A: What Is The Overall Length Of The CE Smith Trailer Axle Beam CES84XR?
- Q&A: Replacement Axle w/ a 49" Hub Face
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: How to Measure a Trailer Axle
- Article: Trailer Lighting Requirements
- Article: How to Tell the Weight Rating of a Trailer Axle
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
Eric W.
8/1/2026
Hi Jerred, My son and I installed the axle yesterday. We drilled a new pair of holes after measuring about 15 times. The re-drilled axle fit perfectly. Thanks, Eric ps - If I knew you were going to post the photo I sent I would have taken a better one. Sorry for the crummy pic.