Trailer axle placement. I bought a 16 ft deck tandem axle car trailer.

Trailer axle placement. Made from a boat trailer. Trailer axles bear the weight of the cargo, navigate diverse terrains, and endure varying road conditions. Our Trailer Axle Placement Calculator is a valuable tool for any trailer owner or operator. Sixty percent of the trailer weight should be placed forward of the axle for proper tongue weight. . Aug 22, 2009 · The general rule of thumb for axle placement is that the center of the axles will be 2/3's of the way back on the trailer. First, the distance Oct 13, 2025 · The ideal placement for axles on a tandem trailer balances load distribution, stability, and maneuverability. The same 60/40 equalizer hanger point applies. But in reality the goal is to place the axles where the trailer will have 10-15 percent of the total trailer weight as tongue weight. Oct 19, 2023 · Tech question regarding axle placement. If the trailer is 27' overall, the center of the axles should be 18' front the pintle hitch. 5 foot tongue. May 26, 2016 · I've read all the "rules" about where to place an axle when building a trailer. For example, if your axles are spaced 33 inches apart, as shown in the attached diagram, a 7K axle slipper spring, like # e74SR, requires a distance of 28-1/2 inches between the front and center hangers and 29-1/2 inches between the center and rear hangers, when using our Tandem-Axle Trailer Hanger Kit for 2" Slipper Apr 3, 2021 · I'm curious to know on my build about axle placement. Axle placement on any trailer is critical! Determining the correct location can be confusing, nerve racking, or even frustrating. I also give a detailed step by step account of packing wheel bearings and mounting the hubs to the axle as well as Learn about commercial tire positions from steer, all-position, drive and trailer axle tires and their importance in this in-depth guide. Tandem Axle Spring Hanger location chart with hanger kits and measurements required for installation. MY question is how far back from center of trailer do I place the Axle? If I place the axle close to center of trailer of what will happened? Any and all replys will be appricated. Lbs. If it is a production trailer set the axle to give resonable unloaded toungue weight and you will be ok. Multiply weight by distance of each axle from the reference line (in inches), and then divide the total results by the vehicle gross weight. Hub Faces Distance Also from above. If the trailer axle is placed too far back and the weight percentage of the cargo carried on the trailer hitch is too high, it will cause excessive wear on the trailer suspension and tires. Take a look at the picture I have included. This simple yet effective guideline suggests placing 60% of the trailer’s total weight in front of the trailer axles and 40% behind them. Improper placement of a trailer axle reduces load capacity, towability and safety. Apr 22, 2015 · The general rule when building a trailer is there should be a 60/40 percent split in weight when centering the axle. My trailer I am May 12, 2025 · Installing a trailer axle is a critical task that ensures the safety, stability, and performance of your trailer. And sometimes you have to slide your axles or 5th wheel to redistribute the weight in the trailer. You would want to have 60 percent of the trailer forward of the axle and 40 percent behind it. Can you point me to a drawing or something that would give me standard dimensions of car trailers asked Proper tandem trailer axle placement is crucial for safe and efficient towing. Axle spread determines trailer balance, while axle weight distribution, influenced by pin weight and tongue weight, ensures proper load distribution. im leaning towards the axleless. Insert washers and nuts on the opposite side of control arm plate. From May 30, 2014 · With a V-nose trailer axle placement is the same as a flat nosed trailer. Check out the differences between each tire position, using our handy quick guide to semi-truck tire positions. I then recommend using the 6-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 7,000-lb Trailer Axles - 24-7/8" Long # e64SR which will work well with the spacing of your hangers at 29-1/2 inches on center which will put your axles at 33-1/2 Mar 17, 2009 · The balance of the trailer is determined by where the axle is located. This technique represents the mathematical and engineering ideas employed to find out optimum axle positions based mostly on user-provided inputs. I am understanding that the further back I go, the more tongue weight I will have. Then based on correct placement, I recommend using a hanger kit like # APT5. Here’s a guide to basic axle weight rules across North America, and a how-to on repositioning axles to get the weight to where it needs In this video, I start this series by giving an insight on torque and static equilibrium in order to calculate the trailer axle position for having 15% of th Building trailer axles is a critical aspect of trailer construction, influencing the overall performance, durability, and safety of the transportation system. There are two formulas to determine axle placement. Learn to mount a trailer axle straight with these steps, tips, and illustrations. The leaf spring is 25. To determine the center of balance (CB) and weight locations following the following procedure. Incorrect placement can lead to a host of problems, including trailer sway, reduced braking efficiency, and even structural damage to both the trailer and the towing vehicle. The tires will be placed under the bed of the trailer. Leave it attached to the tow vehicle, jack it up and put 4 jack stands under the frame. Tighten nuts until snug. May 26, 2025 · A tandem axle trailer spreads weight across two axles, so the placement depends on how long the trailer is and what it carries. ) Discover our extensive library of detailed diagrams, covering everything from trailer brake systems to trailing arm angles and DIY trailer building guides. Mar 20, 2018 · You can figure exactly where to position your axles as well as the wheel base by simply plugging some numbers into the handy chart I've added for you. Jan 20, 2023 · Trailer axle (commonly misspelled as trailer axel) replacement may sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. I'm having some issues deciding whether these work for my trailer or not. 5 1/4 in req. It has a significant impact on weight distribution, stability, and overall Best Trailers Shop In Australia 2025 Articles SHEET 7 OF 8 AXLE SPACING 13-4 EQUALIZER 13-44 EQUALIZER 28. Its going to be a 14' deck dual axle car hauler 18' total. Ive found my center point for the equalizer. Typically on triple axle trailers the center axle will be located 60 percent of the way from the front of the trailer and 40 percent from the May 8, 2019 · To determine spring hanger placement for proper axle positioning you want to use the trailer tongue weight (TW) as a guide. The resulting figure is the number of inches to be measured aft from the reference line to Aug 15, 2022 · You may be surprised at just how many options there are for suspension on your teardrop trailer. Triple Axle Spring Hanger location chart with hanger kits and measurements required for installation. 8 feet from the front of the trailer and 7. This article, drawing on years of experience in trailer design and engineering, provides a comprehensive To tow the trailer safely you want the center of mass to be ahead of the axle. Position axle on axle seats and install U-bolts around axle. This is why Respo has adjustable axles on all multiroller May 20, 2020 · For starters, I've linked one of our helpful articles on where to position your trailer axle. Oct 14, 2005 · Just wondering if the axle placement is different for a gooseneck flatbed vrs a bumper pull trailer? I have a 26 foot flat deck and was wanting to add May 12, 2014 · How to Determine Trailer Axle Position When Building a Home Made Trailer - im building a trailer out of 1. I have provided a chart that shows the spring hanger locations for single axle trailers for you to review, see link. This user-friendly tool helps you determine the optimal axle position based on your trailer’s dimensions and intended load distribution. 2 Tips for mounting trailer axle springs to make the trailer frame stronger. Nov 20, 2024 · Proper trailer axle placement optimizes stability and handling. Please keep in mind that this is a very basic formula or estimate for axle placement. 6 feet from the front of the trailer and 6. com Ensuring proper axle placement on a trailer is critical for safety, stability, and load balance. Mar 29, 2024 · Mastering the 60/40 Rule for Safer Trailer Hauling When it comes to towing a trailer, understanding and applying the 60/40 rule is critical for ensuring safety on the road. I have also added a link to a help article on trailer suspension for you to take a look at. Mar 9, 2016 · For example, if the trailers frames length is 16 feet, then the center-line location for the equalizer hanger will be 9. Instead of using the axle center on a tandem axle trailer you would use the center hanger for the suspension as the point D for the chart. Feb 6, 2015 · The 60/40 axle placement formula is a great starting point and does take into account the tongue of the trailer from where the trailer sits on the hitch ball. The coupler to axle distance will determine how much TW the trailer has and the axle positions should be chosen to keep the trailer TW in the range of 10 to 15% of the gross trailer Learn how to accurately perform a double axle hanger measurement procedure with this step-by-step video guide. They are designed to be versatile and combine the features of the other tire-position tires. Or 2 common mistakes people make mounting trailer axle springs. When empty, I think the tongue weight should be about 10% (or more?) of the empty trailer's total weight. Jul 30, 2015 · When determining axle placement, an important factor to consider is the tongue weight. Dec 19, 2017 · Where to Position the Trailer Axle? When positioning a trailer axle or adding an additional axle, the key is to make sure that the axles are located in just the right position so that roughly 10 to 15 percent of the total trailer weight is placed on the tongue. 5X26 from one company has a different placement than a 8. How to determine the correct axle position for trailers. The other factor that is going to come into play is the springs that you are going to use. Nov 16, 2011 · Placement of Front and Rear Hangers When Building a Tandem Axle Trailer - Building a dual axle trailer. Ensure safe towing and proper weight distribution. The axles are a bit too far back Id say. 4 feet from the back. What should I use in axle placement calculators: center of the wheel or center of the axle? Axle 3500lbs. I have seen some trailers where the wheel is much further back than 35%. There are two considerations for mounting the spring hangers. With most calculations for Axle Position and Tongue Weight, the distribution of weight does not come into play. That you could determine by experimenting with the trailer's balance point (without attaching the axle, since Learn how to properly perform a single axle hanger measurement procedure for trailer suspension in this step-by-step guide. By understanding the principles of axle placement, such as the 60/40 rule and tongue weight calculations, you can ensure optimal weight distribution and minimize the risk of sway or fishtailing. Jan 8, 2025 · 2. stock dimensions will be 8ft wide 30 to 32 ft long how do I decide where axle placement should be. Placing the axle too close to the rear of the trailer frame increases the tongue weight, overloading the trailer hitch and rear tires of the tow vehicle. I have read the general rule of 40/60 and then I see 35/65. Sep 20, 2024 · Use our trailer axle placement calculator to find the optimal axle position for your trailer. You are going to have to get the trailer off the ground and onto jack stands with or without the boat on it. There are advantages and disadvantages to all, but it comes down to your Feb 4, 2024 · finally gathered most of my materials to get the trailer frame going. These resources break down complex ideas to make trailer fabrication and maintenance easier and safer. One formula is for trailers with a tongue weight (TW) greater than 10% of the gross trailer weight (GTW) and the other formula is for trailers with a TW less than 10% of the GTW. Think of the Hub Faces Aug 18, 2018 · Installing Leaf Springs on Single Axle Trailer - In the attached picture from your website, the rear shackle right side is sitting at an angle. Jul 12, 2025 · The optimal placement of the axle on a trailer hinges on achieving a balanced weight distribution, typically aiming for 60% of the load forward of the axle and 40% behind. Mar 5, 2021 · Cargo weight must be distributed evenly across all your axles. just wanted to confirm on axle placement, so far i have seen 60/40 recommendation or 60/40 + about 6" towards the back. Over the last decade or two I have seen several TBN threads that talked only slightly or indirectly about axle placement along the length of trailers. PayLaterTires will help get you back on the road fast. This article delves deeply into the rationale behind the rearward position of semi-trailer axles, while also addressing related technical details that can impact performance and I don’t remember the correct placement of the axle for my trailer. Oct 2, 2017 · Axle Placement for Making a Boat Trailer - where to put the axles - making a tralier for a 24 foot pontoon Jan 8, 2025 · The placement of axles plays a critical role in several operational aspects, including weight distribution, stability, maneuverability, and regulatory compliance. 5 inches and the equalizer is 8 in. Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for lifting and supporting the unit. It is a fairly easy project for me to move the axles forward. (12” wrench or pliers with full hand force. my solar bank and fridge will most likely live in Jun 8, 2012 · Re: Axle Placement on Trailer No problem doing it with the boat on the trailer. I am trying to obtain a best of both worlds solution. Moving the axles rearward will increase the tongue weight of the trailer, and placing the axles forward will decrease the tongue weight. Nov 5, 2019 · How to Measure to Calculate Placement of Torsion Axle - For small tear, single torsion axle. Too far to the rear and the percentage of the cargo weight that is carried on the trailer hitch is too high, causing undue wear on the Mar 24, 2018 · Where would the center be for tandem axle placement on a 14foot trailer? what would the wheel spacing be hub to hub? We have double eye springs that are 27inch in length Thanks for any help you can give. i have the frame constructed but have not installed the springs. Whether you’re replacing a damaged axle or setting up a new trailer, proper installation is essential. To determine the location for the front and rear hangers on your tandem axle V-nose trailer you will first need to make sure that you have the correct center point for your equalizer hanger. For a much more accurate way to determine the correct axle placement for your trailer, take a look at the formula that I have included for you. The 60/40 rule, the 1" for every 1', the tongue should be included in the figures, the tongue shouldn't be included, etc. The arch (or camber) on axle must be facing up when trailer is right side up. 5 x 2. I have attached an axle position chart that gives a formula on how to determine the correct axle position. Apr 18, 2025 · The 60/40 axle placement formula is a great starting point and does take into account the tongue of the trailer from where the trailer sits on the hitch ball. This visual representation breaks down the complex layout into an easily understandable format for drivers, mechanics, and truck Weld Placement Recommendation for Welding Spring Seats to Round Axles Note: If spring seat and related U-bolt clamp parts are different than shown, consult with Dexter for weld recommendations. This will tell you where the axles need to go and thus, what the wheel base will be. I can break this down for you. This measurement is explicit on the axle, but must actually include other factors as shown in the trailer axle diagram. At what distance do I place the front and rear Sep 20, 2007 · I know the axles are not centered on the deck but I dont know how much there set back. I attached a picture that details the process. Jun 27, 2014 · Determining the location of the axles on your triple axle trailer can be difficult, but basically you want to locate the axles so that the tongue weight of the trailer is 10 percent of the total trailer. 5x26 from another I have installed a few hundred of these hangers in my career and there is no easier way than this. This essential process helps ensure your trailer suspension system is correctly Aug 27, 2015 · The axle placement guide picture that I attached will work for nearly all trailers because when followed properly you end up with the correct amount of tongue weight for the trailer so that it does not sway. After placing the hub, bearings, washers, and spindle nut back on the axle spindle in reverse order as detailed in the previous section on hub removal, rotate the hub assembly slowly while tightening the spindle nut to approximately 50 Ft. This will require a mock up (pre In this video I cover how to correctly locate the axle on the trailer frame. The goal of having your axles correctly placed is a Jul 2, 2021 · The correct placement of the trailer axle can allow the trailer to be towed safely and easily. I have never seen a good discussion much less tutorial Nov 22, 2013 · Axle Placement When Building A Three Axle Trailer - when I build this trailer where do I place the axles on a three axle trailer. Proper placement of trailer axles can make the difference between a trailer that tows safely and easily and a trailer that is a danger to everyone around it anytime it is being towed. Once you have the measurements all figured out you can determine which springs are going to work with that set up How do you know where to put the axles on a trailer? For an existing trailer, follow these instructions for calculating axle position. 40 Jul 14, 2025 · The Crucial Role of Axle Placement Understanding axle placement is paramount for trailer safety and performance. Just plug in the numbers and complete the formula to determine the axle placement. Manufacturer’s design: Each trailer is built with a specific job in mind—like hauling machinery, animals, or pallets. Jul 28, 2023 · Start off by placing your axle about 2/3rds of the way behind your trailer coupler. To determine the correct position for the axle determine the trailer weight under the wheels and the tongue weight. Sep 6, 2015 · For example, if the trailers frames length is 18 feet, then the center-line location for the equalizer hanger will be 10. Use the following formula to compute the CB location of vehicles. The placement of the cargo front to back will determine the tongue weight of the trailer – the downward weight at the front of the trailer that is carried by the hitch ball. We look at the total weight and the total center of gravity (a little in front of the axles). Feb 17, 2015 · The distance between the center of the axles should be between 33 and 35 inches. How to Install a 3,500 lb Trailer Axle with Double Eye Springs and Hanger Kit. Calculation Methodology A trailer axle placement calculator’s effectiveness hinges on its underlying calculation methodology. Ensure that the contact area of U-bolts on axle is free of grease, oil, etc. Typically, the axles should be positioned so that approximately 60% of the trailer’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is supported by the axles and 40% by the tow vehicle’s hitch, although specific applications and cargo types may necessitate slight adjustments. By following our step-by-step process and considering the unique characteristics of your trailer and cargo, you can achieve the perfect axle placement for optimal performance and safety. Each position serves a specific purpose in the truck’s overall performance and safety profile. You want the tongue weight of the trailer to be approximately 10 percent of the gross trailer weight. Calculating fifth wheel placement balances weight, while hitch height aligns with fifth wheel position and pin weight. Apr 9, 2020 · How to Determine Where to Put Trailer Axles on 18 Foot Dovetail Trailer - I understand the 60/40 rule axles placement but if my trailer is 18foot with 2foot dovetail 16X2. Jan 21, 2025 · The recommended placement of an axle on a single axle trailer will be determined by tongue weight. In your case on a tandem axle, the center of the axles should be somewheres near the center spring hanger on the trailer frame. This means they work in the steer, drive, and trailer tire positions. It sure is the fastest way, the easiest way and the cleanest way to setup and install all 6 Jun 19, 2018 · I have attached an article to help with correct axle placement on your 18-foot tandem-axle trailer. Proper alignment helps a trailer tow true and handle safe. Maineiac Lincoln Idealarc 250Millermatic 211 Spoolmate 100Arnold Tags:None pcwelder Member Join Apr 19, 2011 · This is a learning/education thing, NOT trying to solve some specific current problem. For example, follow the calculations in both of these articles: “ Trailer Build: Where Does The Axle Go ” and “ Calculating Axle Position “. See full list on mechanicalelements. Whether you’re designing a custom trailer, upgrading an old one, or verifying existing axle locations, the Trailer Axle Placement Calculator is a must-have tool. It seems like the correct placement is 60% behind the leading edge of the trailer. This is a measurement from the trailer directly. Oct 13, 2004 · Adjust axle position to optimise the two conditions if nessesary and you have the correct position for your trailer. Right now my trailer frame is 83” in length and 60” wide. May 25, 2024 · Tandem Trailer Axle Placement Calculator Trailer Length (inches): Cargo Weight (lbs): Axle Spread (inches): Calculate Axle Placement Jun 18, 2024 · Conclusion Proper axle placement on a 12-foot trailer is essential for maintaining stability, control, and safe operation while towing. These show 2 methods for setting the axle Apr 19, 2023 · Hello everyone, General discussion type of question to see what others are thinking, I have noticed that some companies when buying a trailer have multiple axle placements for for the same size trailer, for example a 8. The good news is all options we’ll be discussing have a record of reliability. 2 feet from the back. Measuring the tongue weight of the trailer is an indicator of proper loading front to back. Hanger spacing is important, but you will also want to make sure that the axles are positioned so that 10 percent of the total trailer weight is on the tongue. Finding this measurement depends on the tongue weight of the trailer, and the measurement you're going to get is where you want to put the center hanger from the # APT5 kit for the suspension, on your trailer frame. So that the weight on the coupling is bigger than zero. Want to see more How To videos? Let us know in the comments below of what you would like to see. 1. Nov 22, 2013 · There is an easy way to determine axle placement on a trailer. Mounting Position Mentioned above – either Spring Centers or outside Frame Width. Note the difference in the measurement for Leaf Springs versus Torsion Axles. Apr 2, 2013 · Spring Hanger location dimensions are normally figured by the manufacturer and provided with the spring hanger kit, that includes all of the parts for installing the springs on the trailer frame. It considers elements like weight distribution, trailer size, and variety of axles to calculate the perfect distances Apr 28, 2020 · The spring hanger placement is going to be determined by your axle spacing. This video walks you through the tools required, measurement points, and Safety Precautions Before welding and installing any suspension component parts to the trailer frame requiring the raising of the vehicle, make sure that the vehicle is properly supported on lift stands of suficient capacity. Feb 4, 2002 · Can anyone tell me what the formula is for placing a set of axles under a utility trailer? Apr 29, 2025 · The semi truck tire position diagram typically divides tire locations into three primary sections: steer axle, drive axle, and trailer axle positions. The foundation to every great Trailer, its Axles! If you find yourself looking to upgrade, replace, or even build a trailer from scratch, you may want, or need to find the correct axle location on your trailer. Here's what I Aug 23, 2015 · How To Determine Proper Axle Placement On Single Axle Trailer - building a trailer specifically for a generator that weighs 1100 # it is 52 inches long and 32 inches wide. The center point of your equalizer hanger needs to be located where you will have 60 Oct 6, 2025 · Understanding the Semi Truck Tire Position Diagram Understanding the Semi Truck Tire Position Diagram Diving into the semi truck tire position diagram provides a clearer picture of how each tire contributes to the overall performance and safety of the vehicle. If you are using different weight materials than the original, then the axle location may also be different. I'm adding a Oct 3, 2015 · The 60/40 rule is a great guideline for setting up axle placement on a trailer. I've attached a help article below going over how where to place the axle and the formulas needed to determine where to move the axle (s) if the tongue weight falls above or below 10-15%. I bought a 16 ft deck tandem axle car trailer. But I cant find a definitive answer on where to place them. Nov 25, 2019 · Conclusion/question: What do you think is the least, safe, distance I should have for my axle placement? I want to be able to use this trailer for everything else in the future and having the axles 26-30' back, may make getting proper load distribution on a 16k dozer a little more difficult. Then you can loosen the spring mounts and move the axle with ease. Jul 6, 2023 · Calculating Axle Position – DIY Solutions @ Mechanical Elements How do you know where to put the axles on a trailer? For an existing trailer, follow these instructions for calculating axle position. 3. Axle Position When Building A Trailer Axle position is important for proper weight distribution. Mar 8, 2022 · All Position Tire As the name suggests, all-position tires are designed to work in any axle position. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to correctly install a trailer axle. This Jan 12, 2024 · The key is going to be setting the axles so that the tongue weight sits at 10-15% of the total trailer weight. This is where to start with when picking out axle locations for a tandem axle trailer. Slide axle on axle seats and center it to trailer frame. From there you'll need to fine-tune your axle placement until your trailer tongue weight is 10 - 15% the overall weight of your trailer. Whether you’re replacing the axle for trailers on your full-size RV, a small utility trailer axle, or boat trailer axles, this guide lays out the steps needed to complete the process from start to finish. my cabin size will be 5x9 plus about 5' long tongue. ”So how do I know which is best?” There are a number of factors to consider when picking out which axle you want on your teardrop trailer. This configuration ensures adequate tongue weight, crucial for preventing trailer sway and maintaining stable towing. In this video, I show you how to ACCURATELY PLACE AND SQUARE TRAILER AXLES with detailed step by step instructions on how to locate and square your trailer axle. 8 30. There isn't a set "put the axle here for this trailer length" since trailer weight can vary some, but we've created a helpful article to help make this easier. Does the direction of this angle matter leaning forward, backwards, or vertical? Dec 4, 2011 · I used to build car hauler and utility type trailers, the general rule of thumb was to place the center of the axles so there was 60% of the trailer forward and 40" of the trailer rearward of the axle center. I don’t remember if there is any tongue length involved in the equation or not. The coupler at the trailer tongue is used as the reference point for the axles' positions. The process involves meticulous selection of materials, precise manufacturing techniques, and adherence to industry standards. uh vlt6e q5y3 xthjc ku kdm6g y6et 0ymu w2qwqa jab40

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