The Basics of Trailer Axles

What is a Trailer Axle

A trailer axle is a main shaft that links the wheels of a trailer, allowing it to support loads and travel smoothly. It is pivotal in helping to sustain the weight of the trailer and its load, as well as promoting stability and smooth towing. Utilized for towing or trailer machinery, such as in farms, construction, or logistics terminals and other locations, for trailers, tractors, farm machines, etc., they might stabilize the vehicle and make it smoother to move, improve the traction and handling capability of the vehicle.

Types of Trailer Axles

There are different types of trailer axles based on their braking systems and structures. Disc-braked, non-braked, and drum-braked axles are available at GO Trailer. Each has particular applications:

• Disc-braked axles provide better braking.
• Drum-braked axles are found in heavier trailers.
• Non-braked axles are best for lighter loads.

Why Accurate Measurement Is Important

Accurate axle measurement ensures good fitment, load distribution, and towing safety. Incorrect measurements may lead to alignment issues, tire life loss, or worse, unsafe driving conditions. When purchasing a replacement axle through GO Trailer, accurate spec matching is the way to avoid costly errors.

Tools Needed for Measurement

Essential Tools to Have Handy

Before even trying to measure your trailer axle, have these tools ready:

• Tape measure (of adequate length to span hub faces)
• Caliper or ruler (to measure the diameter of the tube)
• Jack stands
• Phone or paper and pen to take measurements
• Gloves and safety goggles

Safety Reminders Before You Begin

Safety first! Always park on a level surface. Use wheel chocks to secure in place. To jack up the trailer with jacks or jack stands like the Prop Stand Jack Stand with Clamp (5000lbs capacity) from GO Trailer, make sure it is secure first before lifting underneath.

Measurements You’ll Need to Take

Measuring Hub Face to Hub Face

This is your most critical measurement. Measure from the wheel mounting face (hub face) on one side across to the hub face on the other side. This is how wide your axle is.

Measuring Spring Center to Spring Center

Measure from the center of where your leaf springs ride on the axle. This provides proper suspension alignment.

Checking Axle Drop and Tube Diameter

Axle drop is how far down from the axle tube centerline your spindle is — extremely important for ground clearance. Measure tube diameter with calipers or a ruler and compare it with your mounting hardware exactly.

Step-by-Step Measurement

Step 1: Secure the Trailer Safely

Use a Jack Stand like the Side Winding Jack Stand (12000lbs capacity) from GO Trailer to lift and support your trailer. Ensure that it’s levelled first.

Step 2: Measure Hub Face Distance

Place one end of your tape measure on one hub face (the flat surface where the wheel bolts onto), extend across under the trailer frame, and read off the other hub face.

Step 3: Spring Center Distance

Measure where the one leaf spring bolts to the axle tube. Measure center-to-center along that axis. Double-check this number closely — it directly influences suspension geometry.

Step 4: Record Tube Diameter and Drop

Measure the middle section of your axle tube with calipers or a ruler to find its diameter — common sizes are 45mm–60mm, depending on load ratings. Measure the drop axles vertically from the centerline of the tube to the centerline of the spindle.

Choosing the Right GO Trailer Axle Replacement

Matching Measurements to GO Trailer Products

Once you’ve collected all measurements, visit to browse options like disc-braked or drum-braked axles that align with your specs. If you’re unsure which model fits best, contact GO Trailer’s team — we offer excellent customer service tailored for both hobbyists and professionals. By dealing directly with a seasoned trailer parts manufacturer such as Go Trailer, you will be eliminating all the hassles that you would experience with a dealer, and in the end, you will save money and time.

Checking Load Capacity and Compatibility

Verify your present axle’s load capacity — typically stamped into its label — and cross-reference that with choices available through GO Trailer. For example, if you’re outfitting a car hauler such as their 7*14 Hydraulic Tipper Trailer, you’ll need an axle of 2000–3000 lbs per wheel end at a minimum.

Problems to Avoid

Guessing Without Measuring Correctly

Eyeballing measurements leads to costly fitment errors or safety risks while towing. Always employ precise equipment and measure twice for every measurement before ordering an axle replacement.

Ignoring Weight Ratings and Fitment

Do not assume that any axle will do; spring centers only are not sufficient. Load capacity must be compatible with your application situation — whether for tow boats or ATVs in the case of GO Trailer’s 5400*2000mm Box/Cage Trailer with a 1200kg payload rating.

When to Change Your Trailer Axle

Signs of Wear or Damage

Look for twisted tubing, worn spindles, cracked welds where spring seats are found, or excessive rusting — especially if not galvanized like the majority of GO Trailer items are, so by default. To prevent rusting, inner and outer pipes have been galvanized. As a secondary warning, if you notice uneven tire wear or poor tracking during towing, these may also indicate misaligned or failing axles that need replacing.

How Often to Inspect the Axle

At least once a season — more often if used extensively off-road or on saltwater areas (such as boat trailers). Regular inspection prevents early warning signs of failure from progressing to unsafe conditions.

FAQ

Q: Do I require help in choosing an axle?

A: Absolutely! GO Trailer’s personnel via our official website — we will help guide you in product choice by measurement.

Q: Is the GO Trailer axle standard?

A: We possess a CE certificate for trailer parts. The production of their units includes CNC machining, laser cutting, and electrophoresis coating workshops — ensuring quality control on all products.

Q: Do I need to order a batch of spares?

A: 1 unit is the minimum purchase order. Sample orders are okay in case you are testing compatibility before making mass purchases.

Q: Do they export internationally?

A: Yes, we do ship internationally to every country. Delivery time varies depending on the destination, but tracking information is dispatched after dispatch.