Is there a way to identify the pundage rating on one? I am going to an auction and saw they have one with the bubs and everythign on it. The spring centers are 6 feet. But how can I tell the poundage and if it is designed for springs over/under the axle?
You could make a guess at the loading by looking at the construction and bearings, I suppose. The wheel mounting would also give a general clue.
If it's a trailer axle the springs going over/under probably don't matter, unless you end up with hydraulic brakes dripping fluid everywhere.
If it's a mass produced axle it will have a tag with name and model. Perhaps even a production date and serial number, too. Look at the ends near the spring perches, sometimes it's a little 1"X2" stamped steel tag held on with baling wire, then painted black with the rest of the axle.
For design clues, get a copy of the Dexter Axle catalog, or another mass producer. Once you know the design details you can identify them, even if someone else made the one you are investigating. It's not rocket science, they all crib engineering cues off each other.
If it's a 5-lug or 6-lug hub it will be a 2000# or 3500# most likely. If it's a 8-lug hub it could be 3500# to 6000#. The hubs and bearings used will tell the tale.
I can't guess at more than that - do your homework and follow your gut instincts. And know what the axle is supposed to cost new, because auctions sometimes bid stuff up to ridiculous prices for the thrill - and after the gavel drops and you won, you realize you could have ordered two new axles (with the spring kits and hangers and a warranty) for what you paid for one AS-IS. (Too late.)
When the price approaches ~75% of new, STOP BIDDING - let some other fool who doesn't know what it's worth (and where to buy it any day) get suckered by the auctioneer.
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Of the trailer axles I've used in the past, the 3500# axles have had 5 lug bolts on the wheels and the 5000# ones have had 6. YMMV
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I thought that an axle with springs under it would make the ride height of the trailer lower? Wouldn't it?
Update: I did not buy it for 2 reasons: 1. I found out the axle was on a trailer hauling a pontoon boat that had been rear ended, 2. The price went to 70 bucks. I can get a new axle locally with hubs and springs for 100.
It was a disappointing day at the auction. Did not get the disc for my
8n. There was a dual axle trailer there that went cheap enough and I almost bid on it but I chickened out. It went for only 375, but was made with trailer axles which I dont mind but the thing was 2inch square tubing and looked like it was warped or twisted. I guess I just chickened out.So I cam ehome with nothing:(
Nah. You just listened to the voice. Good on ya!
Pontoon boat mean those bearings have been under water, I'll bet. No deal was a good deal.
Pete Stanaitis
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John L. Weatherly wrote:
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