Why Build Your Own Axle? You can use these DIY axle build kits if you’re building your own trailer from scratch. You can also use them to replace your existing trailer axles. Trailer axles wear out every two to three years.
Can you build your own axle?
Build Your Own Axle Kit
If you’re someone who likes to get their hands dirty and fix things when they’re broken, then our DIY trailer axle service kit is the perfect fit for you. These kits contain a trailer axle beam, bearings, seals, nuts, and everything else you need to build or repair your trailer.
Can I add an axle to my trailer?
Expert Reply: You can convert a single axle trailer to a tandem axle but it’s more extensive than just putting the extra axle on there. The current axle does need to be repositioned for proper tongue weight. You will also need to cut off the current hangers since the hanger spacing will not be the same.
What are trailer axles made of?
Spindle steel varies from low grade mild steel to a higher grade medium tensile steel like AISI 1045 and come in both solid round & square. High tensile steels are not ideal for spindles as they do not have the flexibility to handle the stresses placed on a trailer.
How can I make my trailer wider?
If the entire trailer needs to be wider, simply split the trailer down the middle (front to back). Cut all the cross members and add middle sections. Of course, this will also require a new axle because the spring seat distance and track width must get wider.
Is it cheaper to buy or build a trailer?
With factory-built trailers, you may be limited when it comes to customizations. Answering the original question, when it comes to the actual cost, building a trailer is often cheaper than buying one. You will be the one putting in the labor, but you also gain the ability to customize the trailer to your liking.
Can you weld trailer axle?
Set your welder up so that you can lay a good hot penetrating weld (practice on some scrap steel) and fully weld around the spindle and axle tube. Fill the plug weld holes up until the weld is flush with the top of the axle tube. Let the axle cool down slowly – do not quench or spray with water!
Are trailer axles solid?
The axle on a trailer is usually hollow, it’s not solid, and they rust. Like this one rusted to where the wheel fell right off the trailer. So, what you have to do is not look at just the top of the axle, you have to look at the bottom of it, where most of the damage usually occurs.
What size is my trailer axle?
If you bought a company-made trailer (as opposed to building one yourself from a kit) there should be a tag with the VIN, weight and capacities all there for you. You should find it on the driver’s side of the trailer. A second way to determine the size axle you need is to measure the diameter of your existing axle.
What are the different types of trailer axles?
Trailer axles are normally divided into two different types: Spring axles and torsion axles. While these two types of axles perform the same basic job, the way they go about suspending and cushioning the trailer load is completely different.
Can I add a 3rd axle to my trailer?
To add your third axle, you cannot simply add a hanger spring and axle. You can keep your 35 inch spacing but you will need to relocate your hangers. I’ve attached an article to help with the proper positioning of your axles.
Can you add a third axle to a trailer?
I did add a third axle ,to my trailer. It was mainly for better braking because it was always overloaded and it did not mind the weight,you just could not stop. Tire wear was even worse with the third axle,that why i took it back out.
Do trailer axles have a bend?
Most trailer axles are designed with a “bend” in the tube that will deflect when the load (weight of the trailer) is applied. This will theoretically bring the trailer wheel camber toward a 0 value that is the best setting for most trailer applications.
How far back should an axle be on a trailer?
As a start, you will want to determine the approximate 60/40 location of your axle. For example, if your trailer is 84 inches long, you will want to start with your axle approximately 50-13/32 inches from the front of your trailer.
How do you reinforce a trailer?
If you have a choice and want a lot of bang for the buck to stiffen and strengthen a trailer frame, weld in gussets like this. Use square, rectangular, or round tube. Best Use: Longer spans, and maximum added stiffness. Also, thinner tube material for the same strength.
What is the widest a utility trailer can be?
The single-axle utility trailers are available from 60 inches wide and 8 foot lengths up to 77 Inch width and 20 foot lengths. Your trailer can be configured with ramps that include slide-in ramps, fold-up ramps, ramp gates, fold-up gates or ramps, bi-fold, and split gates. Most single axle trailers will be 8′ to 14′.
How much would it cost to build a trailer?
Building your own trailer can be a much more cost effective option than purchasing a mass produced trailer, particularly for the more heavy duty and special purpose designs. The cost of steel will generally fall between $150-$600 depending on the design and local steel prices/availability.
Are building trailers profitable?
With new trailers, it’s generally a larger project to start. It takes a bit of money to lay down for the initial materials, but once you get going, it’s very lucrative. http://www.trailersauce.com/ provides some free plans that align with the American trailer standards.
Can a trailer axle be repaired?
Trailer Axle Repair & Replacement: Whether your axle needs servicing, changing, repairing, or replacing, we recommend you bring your trailer in for a free inspection and any necessary maintenance.We can do anything from packing bearings to replacing brakes and axles.
What are axle spindles made of?
steel
United Axle spindles are factory made with high quality steel.
What material are axle spindles made from?
Expert Reply: TruRyde spindles, like # TRU57FR are made of automotive quality high strength steel.
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