Single axle weight

[Jacqueline in BC]

So we have a 91 Bigfoot 17', single axle trailer. We got everything all packed and drove onto a commercial scale, the weight for the trailer axle is around 3100 lbs.

Our axle guy told us that ours is a 3500lbs axle, so I think we are within the limits. However, there is a sticker on the trailer itself that specifies the gawr is 2770lbs.

Is this going to be a problem?

Thanks!

[Jon in AZ]

Check tire ratings, too. Your axle weight should be less than the combined rating of both tires, allowing a margin for unequal left-right loading.

[Jacqueline in BC]

Thanks Jon. The tires are 1760lbs each. So we should be good?

[FRL001]

It looks like you are close the max loading of the tires but OK unless there is much more weight on one side of the trailer than the other. As said in another post!

I'd suggest running the tires at the maximum pressure stamped on the sidewall to reduce sidewall flex. That should help reduce the chance of blowouts. Remember to check pressures when the tires are cold. Even a run of 5kms will warm up the tires and give you a false reading.

I have a 2008 17.5 foot Bigfoot which has a different axle (4400lbs) and 15" rims. I don't know if you are on 14" or 15" rims. Depending on your tire and rim size you might want to consider going up a level to the next load range tire when it comes time to replace them.

[WaltP]

I'll second Ritchie. Run those tires at max inflation and upgrade to a higher load rated tire as soon as makes sense for you. The ratings are always conservative but you are still running pretty close to the rating.
BTW, 3100 lb axle weight is about what I run when loaded too.

Walt

[Jacqueline in BC]

Good to know that other are running about the same weight, and we will definitely run the tires at max pressure.

We are actually thinking upgrading the axle to 5000 or 6000 lbs and run 15" tires, so we will have lots more room for extra gears.

[Raspy]

The next axle rating after 3500 is the 5200 lb axle. These are very good axles and have 12" brakes.

You may want to go to the next heavier springs too, but be careful or it will ride very rough and possibly cause other problems. You can also add shocks during the switch.

[WaltP]

Originally Posted by Raspy

The next axle rating after 3500 is the 5200 lb axle. These are very good axles and have 12" brakes.

You may want to go to the next heavier springs too, but be careful or it will ride very rough and possibly cause other problems. You can also add shocks during the switch.

Several owners have replaced the 3500 lb torsion axle with a heavier simple axle and springs. A lot less costly.

Walt