HELP! New trailer or bigger axels

[El Wood]

Hey Guys,

I'm in the middle of a trailer dilemma and not sure what to do. Hopefully you guys can help. First, a little background on the situation. I currently own a 7x16 aluminum trailer that is about a year old. It has dual 3000 lb axels (and electric brakes) and is rated at 7,000 gvwr. There is a sticker on the side that advises the trailer load should not exceed 3,700 lbs. The dealer also told me this.

I am currently in the market for a new JD 3320 which weighs 2,900 lbs. I also want to be able to attach a FEL and backhoe which I'm guessing will bring me in around 6,000 to 6,500 lbs.

I really don't want two trailers, so here I'm considering these ideas. And keep in mind, I will trailer my tractor occasionally and will make trips no further than about 20 miles.

Option 1 - Have the trailer dealer switch the 3,000 lb axels for 5,200lb (or 6,000 lb) axels. This will give me the added carrying capacity I need. The cost to do this is about $900.00. Now here is the issue... The dealer said when these trailers are built, the engineers "do their math" and build the frame of the trailer specifically for 3000 lb axels. He said he would change them out but doesn't recommend this as the frame is not designed for the bigger axels.

Option 2 - Buy a new equipment trailer. Minimum cost is about $3000.00.

Below are some pics of my trailer. Thanks in advance for the comments.

Paul

 

[jeffsw6]

Option 1 - Have the trailer dealer switch the 3,000 lb axels for 5,200lb (or 6,000 lb) axels.

I wouldn't do that. Too much liability. I am surprised the trailer dealer is willing to mess with it.

That's a nice looking trailer that should last a long time. I'd post it all over Craigslist and eBay and hope you find a buyer for it at a reasonable price, and if you do, sell it and buy the one you want.

 

[mjncad]

As pretty as your current trailer is, you need a bigger trailer. BTW, what is your tow vehicle?

 

[schmism]

I'm in the middle of a trailer dilemma and not sure what to do. Hopefully you guys can help. First, a little background on the situation. I currently own a 7x16 aluminum trailer that is about a year old. It has dual 3000 lb axels (and electric brakes) and is rated at 7,000 gvwr. There is a sticker on the side that advises the trailer load should not exceed 3,700 lbs.

that sicker and the GVWR dont add up. That trailer cant weigh more than 1000lb .. which should give you 6000lb capacity. this is the reason for paying $$$ for an AL trailer. You get way more carry capacity for a given set of axles.

I wouldnt think twice about putting 5K on that trailer.

 

[bcp]

I wouldnt think twice about putting 5K on that trailer.

GVWR = 5000, but two 3500 axles, from his 2nd photo. Sounds like an understrength frame.

View attachment 271093

 

[Diamondpilot]

Get the right trailer and consider the cost for the lesson you learned. Buy bigger than what you think you need because it always works this way.

Chris

 

[Diamondpilot]

Another thing. Swapping to 5,200# axles will cost more than $900. That is the cost of the axles and brakes but you will also need new wheels (6 lug), new tires (225's min 8ply) 5 of them with a spare, and new hardware for the axles like shackles and springs. Don't forget about the trailer hitch ball coupler, is it strong enough?

Will all this fit in the fenders?

Get a new trailer.

Chris

 

[El Wood]

As pretty as your current trailer is, you need a bigger trailer. BTW, what is your tow vehicle?

My tow vehicle is a Ford 150 Super Crew

 

[El Wood]

Sounds like I'm in the market for a new trailer.... I think I'll keep the aluminum one as it works good for ATVs and other stuff. Thanks for the comments. :thumbsup:

 

[Diamondpilot]

If you do not plan to move the tractor but a few times a year it may be more reasonable to just drive it or hire a roll back tow truck to move it. Around here about $75 each way would get you moved 20 miles.

Chris