Improper trailer axle rating isn’t just a breakdown waiting to happen – it’s also your recipe for ill-handling disaster and legal hot water. Being in the know of these terms will allow you to keep safe and legal, thus protecting your investment.
Understanding Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
Your axle has a GAWR, which is the total weight it supports. That figure can be found on the axle itself or a manufacturer’s plate. Going beyond this score leads to early bearing failure, brake issues as well as feasible axle breakage too.
Calculate Your Actual Load
Combine your trailer’s dry weight and maximum cargo load. Never exceed the sum of the two; it should never be above whatever your axle is set up for. Keep in mind that having an unequal load can cause one axle to be overloaded and the other not carry as much.
Single vs. Tandem Axles
While single axles manage up to around 3,500kg in terms of mass load capacities and axle weight capacity rating for air suspension systems/work ratings on mechanical suspensions; tandem (twin/tri) setups spread the floor loading over two or more axles. For Trailer Parts, consider //autoandtrailer.com/shop/trailer-parts
Matching Components Matters
Tyres, wheels and brakes must be compatible with the axle rating. Always size your maximum load to the lowest component.
Legal Requirements
Compliance with the regulations in the UK mean unladen trailers can only exceed a prescribed limit if towing behind an appropriate tractor unit, have to display weight plates showing maximum axle loads for items over 750kg. Going above these boundaries invalidates insurance and creates prosecution problems.
Upgrading Considerations
One component cannot simply be upgraded to increase load capacity, as this would require simultaneously upgrading axles, suspension, brakes and tyres along with the coupling. Professional assessment makes sure all the parts work in a secure manner.