What are the parts of a trailer axle?
Trailer axles are beams responsible for supporting and transferring weight to the wheels. If you’re in the market for a trailer axle, there are some connective parts you need to get as well. Without these parts, you can’t wholly assemble your axle to the trailer. The axle parts you need depend largely on the type of axle you have.
What are the different types of trailer axles, and what parts do they have/need?
Due to their operation differences, the different trailer axle types require additional parts. Sure enough, there are some parts that all axles use. For instance, every kind of axle needs hub and bearings. However, some other axles are more sophisticated and have additional features. You can find these axles and their parts at Trailers 2000 Parts. Below are the different types of axles and the parts they need to run properly;
Lazy axle
The term “lazy axle” means that the axle is unbraked. A lazy axle is common in single-axle trailers. These trailers have only one set of wheels. Lazy axles do not have any braking components or parts, unlike other types of axles. Their structure is simple, and they’re easier to maneuver in limited space. You will also require U Bolts that suit the axle size and spring thickness along with the fish plates and axle seats.
Trailers with lazy axles are better at carrying lightweight objects. Since they have only a single set of wheels, they are easier to maintain. To set up a lazy axle, you need parts such as a beam, bearings, hubs, and wheel nuts.
Braked axle
Trailers over 750kg GVM must be fitted with brakes. In a tandem or dual-axle trailer up to 2000kg GVM, there are two sets of wheels. As a result, there’s a need for brakes on the front axle only. Trailers with brakes can carry more load.
These trailers can also move at the speed limit safely. Braked axles need a beam, hubs, bearings, and wheel nuts to set them up. In addition to those specific parts, they need a braking component. You can choose to use a disc brake assembly. Today, most trailers with mechanical brakes use disc brakes, and for a good reason. Disc brakes work well and provide excellent braking control plus they are very easy to maintain. You will also require U Bolts that suit the axle size and spring thickness along with the fish plates and axle seats.
Electric brakes
Electric brakes function with current from the towing vehicle’s tail lights. The current gets to the trailer through a brake controller and the plug wiring in the trailer connector. Like the lazy and braked axles, you typically need a beam with bearings, hubs, and wheel nuts for this system. Brake drums and electric backing plates are essential for an electric brake trailer axle. You will also require U Bolts that suit the axle size and spring thickness along with the fish plates and axle seats.
What elements/parts make up a trailer axle?
We already highlighted the parts that make up a trailer axle. The simple components include beams, hubs, bearings, and wheel nuts. Braked axles have additional braking features in the form of disc brakes or brake assembly. Trailer axles have the task of supporting the wheels, so manufacturers use high-strength materials to make them. Trailers 2000 Parts uses high-tensile solid steel to build trailer axle beam that can stand the test of Australian conditions. Axles are available in standard lengths and custom sizes can be made to suit any size trailer.
What other parts do I need for a replacement axle?
When purchasing a replacement axle for your trailer, there are other parts you may need to get. The particular parts you need depend on the type of axle you have. To repair or replace your trailer axle, you might need the following parts;
- Axle
- Hubs
- Wheel nuts
- Bearings
- Brakes
- U bolts
- Fish plates
- Axle seats
If you’re unsure about what you need, you can contact our Trailers 2000 Parts team for assistance.
How do I know what type of axle to purchase for my trailer?
Before choosing an axle for your trailer, you should consider the capacity of the load you intend to tow and the size of the trailer chassis and wheels. If you’re planning to haul heavy loads, you should get a braked axle. Lazy axles are better for lightweight cargo. However, you also have to consider the size of your trailer’s chassis and wheels. To ensure towing safety, use an axle that suits your trailer.
When do I need to purchase a replacement axle for my trailer?
Before choosing an axle for your trailer, you should consider the capacity of the load you intend to tow and the size of the trailer chassis and wheels. If you’re planning to haul heavy loads, you should get a braked axle. Lazy axles are better for lightweight cargo. However, you also have to consider the size of your trailer’s chassis and wheels. To ensure towing safety, use an axle that suits your trailer.
When do I need to purchase a replacement axle for my trailer?
Manufacturers usually build axles to last, but bad road conditions can hasten their failure. If you have a bearing failure this can badly damage the machined shaft of the axle or if your axle has been bent you will need to replace the axle. You can also replace your trailer axle to upgrade the trailer’s capacity.
When purchasing an axle, you should remember to get all the associated parts. There’s no better place to get your trailer axle and parts than Trailers 2000 Parts. Our trailer axles feature durable high tensile steel material that can survive the harsh Australian terrain. Make contact with a Trailers 2000 Parts expert today and get your axle and parts.