Thread: Trailer drop axle, reversed ?

Can't see any issue with underslinging the axle, as long as it is securely located. That would be my preference of the two methods, as it does not apply any torque moment to the axle mounting attachments.

Originally Posted by POD

Can't see any issue with underslinging the axle, as long as it is securely located. That would be my preference of the two methods, as it does not apply any torque moment to the axle mounting attachments.

I did think about the forces but either up or down the forces would be similar i believe , if underslinging it gets me the correct height then it will be preferable.

Not a direct comparison I know, but close. My box trailer has an underslung axle and rides level behind my Defender. It also has 16" ford wheels and car road tyres.
Don.

If the trailer won't need to go offroad why don't you drop your tow-ball?

Originally Posted by tomalophicon

If the trailer won't need to go offroad why don't you drop your tow-ball?

x2

I did SOA on my trailer and it has been really good so far. You may just need to trim the spring centre bolt if there is excess thread. The drop and stepped axles are more money for a setup that I don't think would be as strong.

Originally Posted by tomalophicon

If the trailer won't need to go offroad why don't you drop your tow-ball?

I didnt say it wouldnt go offroad, i just wont be taking it to the Cape anytime soon and i wont it to sit nicely behind the disco with its 3" lift.
I reckon a dropped axle of 45mm with 65mm thick plates on the step would have to be strong enough, they use them on car trailers and such ?
I can get one cheap if the width is right, i already have a set of disco rims and matching hubs ready to fit.

Hi there Loanrangie

I have worked(15 years) at a couple of well known trailer fabrication shops here in W.A.
The SOA is fine to do.
As Slunnie said drop axles would cost money,where as you could sling the axle under for next to nothing.

Another option would be to block the hitch up. If your hitch is a bolt on type you could get a piece of RHS 100x50x4 mm at the correct length to suit your hitch get a mate to weld in some caps at each end . Then drill holes to match the hitch,some 50 mm longer bolts . Bolt it back together , job done .