A little off the GORV theme, but maybe not....

Anyone had any experiences with upgrading or swapping trailer axles?

I'm dealing with a cargo trailer that has axles way-underrated for the weight we're hauling.

New axles are really expensive so I'm considering searching for a wrecked 5th wheel or camper that I can scalp from.

Current axles are standard tandem 3500# torsion and we need to go up to much bigger like 7,000#.  We're usually hauling at least 10,000lbs.

New axles means new tires, new brakes, etc.

If y'all got any tips, we'd appreciate 'um.........

Views: 656

Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

I am a ironworker/welder by trade and know a little about steel. Your trailer was probably engineered to carry so much. Sounds like its being overloaded quite a bit. Just upgrading the axle won't keep the frame bending or cracking over time. If U R hauling that much on a regular basis consider upgrading.

can't find ANYTHING on the market.

it seems they make equipment haulers but they'll all flat-beds and don't make anything enclosed.

closest I've seen with heavier axles is too big or just way too expensive

northern tools has a selection of axles and brake accessories.

saw that - except there are no Northern Tools in the NORTHwest.... so much for NORTHERN Tools... LOL

 

Robert, Have you thought about a live stock trailer and converting to what you need, just a thought.

considered it, but most are way too heavy

I agree with Chuck - axles are not the only issue.  The construction of the trailer may not be suitable to your use.  And brakes must definitely be upgraded. 

We recently had 3500 lb axles replaced on a '63 because the brake and axle parts were obsolete.  For dual axles with all new electric brakes we paid about $2200.  Tires and new wheels were another $800.  So it's not a cheap job to have done.  The difference is that our axles, by state law in Indiana, had to be replaced with a comparable type axle, so the new ones have 6000 ratings.  I'd still never carry that much because the trailer isn't rated for it in it's construction, but it was quite an upgrade.  

Cindy

last quote we got was about $3500+

only $500 less than I payed for the whole trailer....

We once had an axle changed right at the manufacturer's shop.  I don't know where you are getting quotes from.  The ones I mentioned above were done by an RV repair shop that specializes in axles.  I don't know where you are located, but if you can find either of those places the price might be better.  That price seems quote high.

ya, you're telling me.  we're up in Southern Oregon.

last quotes I got were down in Phoenix, AZ - and every "dealer" or RV shop I talked to said they had to special order the axles taking 4-5 weeks.....

we're on the road but we're starting over when we get back in a few days........

REALLY?

we haven't seen ONE for sale

LOTS of flat beds for hauling back-hoes but can't find a single enclosed cargo hauler with anything but 3500's

........barring the $20k racing trailers...... WAY out of our budget....

I search for Older wrecked TOY HAULER 5th wheels. Even asked local insurance companies about totaled trailers. On average a toy hauler has 12K to 15 K axels and even have brakes with hubs complete for a 1/5 of new. I put 10K axels on my 24 ft for a better ride.

Also,, an 8 K rated toy hauler axel is rated at 8k per side, giving you 16K safe load weight.

I picked mine up for $225. per axel ( times 2 ) and came with wheels and tires ready to bolt on.

RSS

Members

HOW TO MEMBER POSTS

  •         How To Links 

-Search Good Old RV's

-Start a New Group 

-Roof Repair Photos & Products

-Repair an RV Roof

-Pick Roof Sealer   

-Understanding RV Electrical Systems 

-Get RV Insurance   

-What to Look For When Buying a Used RV

-Jack Installs Fuel Injection in his Dodge 

 RV ARTISTS 

 

 Artist Roads                                              

                      

JOIN US AT GOOD OLD RVS

If you love classic and vintage RVs then come Join us. Come on in and have some fun. JOIN HERE NOW

Forum

Starcraft Ceiling Repair

Started by Donald Morgenroth in RV Repair & Maintence Mar 18.

Replacing controller ,? And inverter 1 Reply

Started by Dave King in Vintage & Classic RV Restoration & Purchase. Last reply by Rick Cornell Apr 27, 2023.

Sway Bar Links 2 Replies

Started by Grey Wolf in RV Repair & Maintence. Last reply by Grey Wolf Apr 22, 2023.

Events

Videos

  • Add Videos
  • View All

JOIN US - COME ON IN!

If you love classic and vintage RVs then come Join us.

 Come on in and have some fun.      

 Dedicated to a simpler, more rewarding and fun way of life in a Good Old RV... 

Vintage Travel Trailers, Vintage Campers, Camper Restoration, Bus Conversions, Vintage RV Forums, Old RVs, Tiny Homes, Boondocking

A work of art by member Paige Bridges

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 Disclaimer - Please Read it

Enjoy this site and use it totally at your own risk.

By using or viewing this site YOU agree to Hold Harmless anyone associated with it including other members. Also, YOU agree that YOU are solely responsible for ANY and ALL actions, results or damages. Members "opinions" are just that and any repair or alteration comments or recommendations are by folks who are not licensed repair  or mechanical professionals. Any repairs or modifications you do totally at YOUR OWN RISK. Use licensed professionals for all work to avoid possible serious injury or damage. Use  banks for purchases.  Have fun!

Copywrite & Trade Mark Registered GoodOldRV© ,GoodOldRVs©, GoodOldRVs.com©,GoodOldRVs.net©,GoodOldRV.Com©

© 2024   Created by Jimco_W001.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service