9 Tips For Selecting The Right Axle For Your Trailer

Home » 9 Tips For Selecting The Right Axle For Your Trailer

To begin with, what is the importance of a Trailer axle? Axles are the core shafts that allow a wheel or gear to rotate. Axles in poor condition or that are neglected might be devastating. 

Axles are linked directly to the wheels for rotation. Additionally, an axle may be connected to the trailer, and the vehicle’s wheels can rotate around it. Even in a standard vehicle, axles must operate correctly to move. 

trailer axle

Untended, built-up axles might result in your vehicle’s tires popping out unexpectedly while you’re traveling. Consider traveling at high speed on the highway, and your axle breaks down. The outcome might be catastrophic. Now raise the risk of having something as critical as your axles go unmaintained by 6. That is the danger posed by unmonitored axles on your trailer.

Careful examination of features available for moving trailers axle can provide a long-term answer that will deliver more protection, longevity, and greater return on capital.

1. Selecting The Right Axle According To Your Trailer Specifications

2. Selecting The Right Axle According To Your Trailer Load Capacity And Quantity Of Axles

3. Selecting Right Axle Type

4. Selecting according to Characteristics of the spring (for Leaf Springs)

5. Selecting according to Axle Distance (for Multiple Axles)

6. Trailer Construction  And Size

7. Position of the Mounting Device

8. Dimensions of the wheels and tires

9. Trailer Load Deck Height

Conclusion

1. Selecting The Right Axle According To Your Trailer Specifications

In the hauling sector, ideal loading circumstances are a rarity. While loading equipment in the yard may be straightforward, finding a flat place with adequate maneuverability in a busy construction zone is more challenging.

Numerous operators have discovered that moving axle trailers offer the optimal mix of safety and mobility. However, as with any trailer, realizing these benefits requires careful matching product specifications to the specific application. Often, simply picking a moving axle trailer off the lot will be enough. However, a thorough examination of possible features in consultation with a respected dealer or manufacturer ensures a long-term solution that provides increased safety, durability, and a higher return on investment.

Numerous manufacturers provide traveling axle or sliding axle trailers. While each manufacturer offers somewhat different benefits, a few design elements make these trailers ideal for organizations seeking adaptability and simplicity of loading. Operators aware of their requirements in these areas will have no difficulty locating the appropriate trailer for their operation.

 

trailer axles

2. Selecting The Right Axle According To Your Trailer Load Capacity And Quantity Of Axles

After obtaining the Gross Vehicle Weight, the axles’ numbers and capacity must be determined. For instance, if you want 6,000 lb. gross vehicle weight and trailer tandem axles, the required minimum capacity per axle is 3,600 lb.

To determine the maximum load of your axle, look at the VIN plate or label on the trailer that contains the VIN. The axle’s weight limit should be specified on the same plate or label. Additionally, the axle may include a tag or plate indicating the weight capacity.

3. Selecting Right Axle Type

The axles are critical components of your vehicle. They are core shafts that link the engine to the wheels. They usually turn with the wheels. Axles are required for every vehicle to operate because they manage the force that moves the wheels.

The axle’s load capacity must be sufficient to sustain the highest ATM rating. Split the ATM by the number of axles on a multi-axle trailer to obtain the axle’s minimum load capacity.

Assess the total length of the axle, plus the spindle end. All tires and hubs should be removed for accomplishment. This size is referred to as a tip-to-tip measurement.

If you cannot provide a tip-to-tip dimension and the trailer is already in use, you will want a face-to-face measurement. You may then calculate a tip-to-tip ratio based on this.

Measure from the center’s face to where the wheel is bolted. Then measure to the front of the axle where the wheel is bolted.

4. Selecting according to Characteristics of the spring (for Leaf Springs)

Eye-Eye and Slipper springs are the most common types of leaf springs. This case had to do with how the springs interacted with the frame when installing. Most of the time, lighter trailers work well with Eye-Eye designs (both single and multiple trailer axles). For heavy-duty, multi-axle applications, slipper springs should be used. Every time it’s possible, experts prefer to use Eye-Eye. The absence of springs indicates that this part is not intended for use with Torsion Axles.

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When talking about trailer axles and mounting hardware, it’s important to remember that not all of them are created equal! Axles for mobile homes, for example, should be treated with caution because they were designed specifically for that application. A set of incorrect assumptions will almost certainly result in severe consequences.

a. Length of Spring (for Leaf Springs)

This is the distance required for bearing the weight — just as on a double-Eye type spring, the distance between the eyes is needed. However, this is not always the case; longer springs often provide a better ride. Industry experts recommend the most extended springs that are practical for a given application. In addition, this provision does not cover torsion bars, airbags, axle-less vehicles, and other similar devices.

5. Selecting according to Axle Distance (for Multiple Axles)

The axle spacing of a multiple-axle trailer is defined as the distance between the centerlines of the axles. The axle spacing is determined mainly by spring length rather than mounting hardware but mounting hardware impacts. The typical heights are 33 inches and 35 inches, respectively. The standard and suggested parts — springs, spring hangers, equalization, and so on — are generally a good idea to follow. Follow the manufacturer’s directions — and make sure you get the necessary materials for adequate Tire Space.

6. Trailer Construction  And Size

Operators should search for a trailer with a similarly rugged build for loading in adverse situations, such as swampy or uneven terrain. The piggyback cylinder supplies power and traction to the moving axles. While most traveling axle trailers use a 4-inch cylinder, those with a 5-inch cylinder give 56 percent greater push force to optimize axle function.

Furthermore, consider a 4-beam frame with 4-inch I-beam cross-members to boost the structure’s endurance and adaptability when mixed loads of minor equipment are present. Compared to the typically utilized perimeter frame, which focuses on only two outer beams, this design provides more deflection throughout the deck and a more balanced weight distribution.

7. Position of the Mounting Device

The term “Mounting Position” refers to the axle’s determined point joining the trailer structure. The Spring Centers represent the distance between Leaf Springs and the Spring Centers. This defines the mounting.

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Because Torsion Axles do not require springs to be mounted, the mounting position of a Torsion Axle is determined by the bracket width (which is generally the outer side of the frame members or the Frame Width). Also, look at the image below since the bracket may be used in various ways.

8. Dimensions of the wheels and tires

Although not strictly an axle component, decisions concerning trailer wheels, especially the Tire Type, are highly intertwined. Additionally, the tire width and capacity must be appropriate for the job. The load capacity of the wheels and tires should be greater than those of the axle.

9. Trailer Load Deck Height

Another specification to bear in mind is the loaded deck height to minimize permit costs and optimize efficiency. The legal load height in the United States is 13 ft. 6 inches. Nonetheless, operators encounter numerous lower-level overhead obstructions, particularly in metropolitan areas. A single inch can distinguish between hours when traveling from point A to b and beyond in these circumstances.

A traveling axle trailer with a low-laden deck height of 36 inches enables the carriage of taller equipment with the utmost flexibility.

Additionally, take note of the applied load of the trailer. This function is critical for effectiveness and security, as it enables you to drive or winch items directly onto the deck, avoiding the need for ramps and the dangers involved with driving up over the back axle. Additionally, it simplifies the transportation of machines with low surface height, such as bricks and rollers.

Load angles vary according to type and manufacturer but are typically between 8 and 6 degrees. In general, the smaller the load angle, the simpler it is to load, so compare this critical specification before deciding.

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Conclusion

Finally, examine any optional features, such as flexible tie-down options that will allow you to load your vehicle with greater freedom. Some trailers have double keyhole tie-down holes on top of the exterior beams and sunken in the middle of the main deck, while others have single keyhole tie-down slots. This is a critical characteristic in the landscaping, construction, and rental industries since it allows for the safe loading of lighter gear such as skids steers side-by-side with larger equipment. Moreover, some companies provide traveling axle trailers equipped with a curbside toolbox, which allows for safe and quick access while keeping one’s eyes on the road ahead. This additional storage option will enable operators to store all of the chains and tie-downs required for effective mixed-load hauling.

Making the Correct Decision

A lot depends on your selection about which trailer to buy. The process of selecting a moving axle unit that enhances both standards and loading effectiveness may be time-consuming and difficult. Working with reliable dealers and suppliers can assist you in determining which features are most appropriate for your hauling needs.