Not strictly raft related but it is a raft trailer I'm building out and all y'all seem to know about trailers.
I want to make sure I'm within load specs. It's a used trailer I'm working with and I cannot find any part numbers or ratings on the axle. It has these hubs: https://www.etrailer.com/p-8-258-5UC1-EZ.html
Can I assume the axle is good for the same 2,000lb? Or is it easy to mismatch the ratings and have a 2,000lb hub and something different on the axle?
In my opinion, if you're concerned about it, spend 100-150 bucks on a new axle so you know how many miles are on it, it's weight rating, and you aren't stranded on the side of the road with a busted hub.
Also would a relatively narrow width 47" axle track length (face of hub to face of hub) and leaf springs on 34" centers give you any pause? With a 80" wide raft sitting up 38" off the ground. See sketch.
I could lower the raft platform at the expense of storage if needed.
I have a 4x8 trailer (meaning it will hold a 4x8 sheet of plywood in the bed). I built a frame above the bed rails, so the raft probably sits at 36-48"...I regularly pull my 16' raft on it. I made the tongue extendable 4', and it pulls and backs better, but I ran fine before I added the extension. https://photos.app.goo.gl/eBGbT7PKJcfsbBdj8
If I were you, (assuming you can weld) I would take the motorcycle frame off that trailer, build a new raft deck, and get wider axles ....oh yeah and extend the tongue. Basically make a whole new trailer ;-)
Yeah, that's about as light an axle as is available for 5 on 4.5".
If that's the part number for the hub, then it's likely a 2,000-2,200# axle as well. I doubt it will be rated lighter, and I also doubt it's rated for 2,500-3,500.
48" is narrow...not so much for the boat, but for the track width. If you go down some narrow backcountry road, or drive in snow/slush, I can really see that thing wandering in your track. I'd prefer something closer to the track width of your tow vehicle (says the guy with a wide track trailer...it wanders a tad, but less with too-wide than too-narrow).
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
Mountain Buzz
639.4K posts
63.3K members
Since 2003
A forum community dedicated to whitewater kayaking, boating, and rafting enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about safety, routes, gear, models, styles, gear swaps, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more!