QA

Question: How To Measure A Boat Trailer Axle

What size are boat trailer axles?

Typically the 2 x 2 Galvanized Axles are used with Boat Trailers spending most of their useful life in Saltwater environments, while the Painted Steel 2 3/8″ Round Axles would be used in mostly Freshwater Environments. The Two Main differences between these axles would be the Shape and the Construction.

How is axle length measured?

TRACK LENGTH: measure your axle track length by determining the distance between the center of one tire to the center of the other tire. A more precise measurement can be made by measuring the distance from one ‘HUB FACE’ to the other.

Are boat trailer axles different?

There are two types of axles common to Boat Trailers: Spring axles are those that are used with springs to cushion the load. Torsion axles use a rubber insert into the tube to hold the arm and spindle to cushion the load. The best axle to use is a matter of opinion.

How do you measure trailer width?

Thanks. Expert Reply: Actually, the width of a trailer is determined by it’s widest point. If the wheels are outside of the frame of the trailer then the width is measured for that trailer from outside of the fender to outside of the fender on the other side of the trailer.

Are all trailer axles the same?

In almost all cases 3,500 lb axles will all use the same bearings. If your trailer has a Lippert or Dexter 3,500 lb axle then yeah they would be the same. But to be safe it won’t hurt to pull them off and get the numbers.

How do I know my axle ratio?

Method 1: Count the number of teeth on the ring gear and the pinion. Divide the number of the ring gear’s teeth by the number of the pinion’s teeth. This will give you the axle ratio.

What does a 3500 lb axle mean?

Question: The carrying capacity of two 3,500 pound axles is 7,000 pounds. The axles support not only the cargo’s weight but also the weight of the trailer’s frame and body.

How do you measure for a trailer axle replacement?

To determine the axle size you will need there are some measurements needed. First, if you are replacing the axle then you can measure the one you have. Measure from the center of one spring seat to the center of the other spring seat. Then measure from hub face to hub face.

How is trailer wheelbase measured?

Manufacturers advertise wheelbase according to the distance from the center hub of the steer axle, to the center-point between the two rear wheels on a three-axle truck. So, stick a ruler vertically in the ground right in between the two rear tires, and measure from there to the steer axle.

Can you put two different size axles on a trailer?

Tandem Axle Trailers: Like the name implies, a tandem axle trailer has two sets of axles – one right behind the other. The extra tires allow the trailer to carry more weight and to be more stable at high speeds and highway conditions. Bigger payload capacity means more room for whatever you are hauling.

Which is better spring or torsion axle?

Torsion trailer axles offer a smoother ride and less maintenance. Leaf springs are more durable, less expensive and far easier to replace parts on. Whichever you choose, you’ll see the best results by properly loading your trailer with the aim of getting the most wear out of the system you pick.

How do I know what size hub to buy?

To correctly measure the bolt circle of a hub, measure from the center of the hub to the center of a stud and multiple that measurement by two. The second specification to determine is the Inner and Outer bearing size.

How do I know my hub size?

Hub Flange Diameter – The distance across the hub’s flange from hole to hole.Here’s how to measure these distances: Figure out the distance between the lock nuts (where the hub sits in the dropouts) – 100 or 110 mm is typical for the front. Take that number and divide by 2. Then measure from the flange to the lock nut.

How do I know what size my hub is?

Place a tape measure across the face of the exposed wheel hub, which it protrudes out from the center of the drum brake assembly. Take the measurement across the front of the hub, which is the diameter of the hub. Make sure your tape measure intersects the center of the hub. Write your measurement down.

How do you measure a boat trailer?

Measure with a measuring tape along the center line of the trailer, the distance from the front of the hitch to the center of the back rail of the frame of the trailer. Your boat needs to fit within the space afforded by the trailer.

How do you size a boat trailer?

To calculate needed trailer capacity, calculate the total weight including the boat, the engine, a full fuel tank (approximately 7 lbs. per gallon), full water tanks (if applicable) and your personal gear. A good rule of thumb is to use 10% of boat, motor, and liquid weights for personal gear.