
If you're looking to find the axle weight of your camper, there are several methods you can use. Firstly, check for a sticker, stamp, or plate on the axle, which may indicate the weight capacity or gross axle weight rating (GAWR). If there's no sticker, you can measure the axle tube diameter, as this can indicate the axle's capacity. For example, a 2-3/8 diameter axle typically has a 3,500-lb capacity. Additionally, you can check the bolt pattern, wheel bearings, and other identifying axle measurements to help determine the axle's weight capacity. If all else fails, you can contact the manufacturer with the serial number to verify the capacity.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Check for sticker, stamp, or plate | Look for the term “capacity” or “GAWR” (Gross Axle Weight Rating) with a number in thousands |
Measure axle tube diameter | For round axles, the tube diameter indicates capacity; e.g., a 2-3/8" diameter axle has a 3,500-lb capacity |
Check bolt pattern/number of lugs | In conjunction with tube diameter, this helps narrow down the capacity range |
Check wheel bearings | Certain bearings are common to specific axle sizes; e.g., a 3"-diameter axle with inner bearing 25580 and outer bearing 02475 indicates a 7,000-lb axle |
Other identifying axle measurements | Hub face and spring center measurements are crucial for choosing the correct replacement axle |
What You'll Learn
Check for a sticker, stamp or plate on the axle
To find the axle weight of your camper, one of the first things you should do is check for a sticker, stamp, or plate on the axle. This is one of the most reliable and easiest ways to determine the axle's weight rating.
The sticker, stamp, or plate on the axle will likely include the weight rating. It might clearly state “Capacity 5,000”. Alternatively, look for the abbreviation "GAWR", which stands for Gross Axle Weight Rating, followed by a number in the thousands.
If you cannot find a sticker, stamp, or plate on the axle itself, there may be a sticker or plate on the trailer that includes this information. The trailer's main identification sticker may include axle ratings. This sticker is typically located on the driver's side of the trailer.
In addition to the weight rating, the sticker, stamp, or plate may also include the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). If you only find the VIN and no weight rating, you can call the manufacturer to verify the axle's weight capacity.
If your camper came with a company-made trailer, there should be a tag with the VIN, weight, and capacities listed. This tag is usually located on the neck and tongue of the trailer.
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Measure the axle tube's diameter
Measuring the axle tube diameter of your camper trailer is an important step in ensuring optimal performance and safety. It is also crucial when identifying the correct replacement axle. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you measure the axle tube diameter accurately:
- Prepare Your Tools: You will need a reliable tape measure, a straight edge or level, a notepad and pen for recording measurements, and ideally, a digital caliper for precise measurements.
- Locate the Axle Tube: The axle tube is the section of the axle that runs between the spring seats. It is important to measure the diameter of the tube itself, rather than the spindle or other components.
- Measure the Diameter: Using your digital caliper, measure the distance across the axle tube, from one side to the other. Ensure you are measuring the diameter and not the circumference. Take your measurements at various points along the axle tube, between the spring seats.
- Determine the Axle Capacity: Different axle capacities correspond to specific axle tube diameters. Here is a general guide:
- For 1,000-lb to 2,000-lb axles, the diameter is typically between 1.5 and 1.75 inches.
- For 3,500-lb axles, the standard diameter is 2 3/8 inches.
- Axles ranging from 5,200 lb to 7,000 lb usually have a 3-inch diameter.
- 8,000-lb axles commonly have a 3.5-inch diameter.
- For 9,000-lb axles, expect a diameter of 4 inches.
- Axles with a capacity of 10,000 lb or more typically have a 5-inch diameter.
Record Your Measurements: It is important to record all your measurements accurately. Compare your measurements with the standard diameters for different axle capacities to identify the correct capacity of your camper trailer axle.
By following these steps, you can accurately measure the axle tube diameter of your camper trailer. This information will assist you in making informed decisions regarding maintenance, repairs, or upgrades to your trailer's axle. Remember to prioritize precision and safety when working with trailer measurements.
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Check the bolt pattern
To check the bolt pattern of your camper's axle, you'll need to determine the number of bolts or lugs per wheel and the diameter of the circle that they are arranged on. This is important to ensure compatibility when replacing or upgrading your camper's axle or wheels.
First, count the number of lug bolts on one wheel. Most trailer hubs have 4 or 5 lugs per wheel/hub, but heavier-duty, higher-capacity trailers may have 6 or 8 lugs.
If your trailer wheel has an even number of lugs, measure from the centre of one bolt to the centre of the bolt directly opposite. This will give you the diameter of the lug pattern.
If your trailer wheel has 5 lugs, the measurement process is slightly different. Choose any lug bolt and measure the distance between the back of that lug to the centre of another lug directly across from it, skipping one bolt in between.
The two most common lug patterns are 4 on 4 inches and 5 on 4.5 inches, typically found on smaller boat and utility trailers. The industry standard is the 5-lug on 4.5-inch (545) bolt pattern, with the 5-lug on 5-inch (550) pattern as the secondary standard.
If you're having trouble finding the bolt pattern, you can use a bolt pattern template or print one out to make the process easier. Alternatively, you can contact a specialist for assistance.
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Check your wheel bearings
Checking your wheel bearings is an important part of maintaining your camper or trailer. Wheel bearings support the weight of your camper and ensure the wheels spin properly as you tow it. They can become contaminated with dirt and dust from the road, so it's important to keep them clean and lubricated to prevent leaks and deterioration.
How to Check Your Wheel Bearings
Checking your wheel bearings is a simple task that you should do at the beginning of every season and before any trip. First, jack up one side of the trailer, grab the top and bottom of the tire, and push and pull alternately. The wheel should have very little play, but if there is play, it's a sign that your bearings need to be repacked.
Repacking Your Wheel Bearings
Many trailer manufacturers recommend repacking your wheel bearings with grease every year or at least every 20,000 miles. To do this, you'll need to remove the wheel and dust cap, as well as the cotter pin, retaining nut, and washer. Then, pull the hub off the spindle and remove the bearings, cleaning them thoroughly with a bearing cleaner and inspecting them for any signs of wear and tear. Once they're clean and dry, coat them with a high-quality, high-heat grease, and reassemble the wheel.
Choosing the Right Grease
It's important to use a grease that is rated for bearings and high heat. Good-quality grease won't break down as quickly and will prevent metal-to-metal contact, reducing friction and keeping moisture out. This is crucial, as bearings can rust very quickly if exposed to moisture.
When to See a Professional
While repacking your wheel bearings is a task you can do yourself, it's always best to consult a trained professional if you're unsure. A certified technician will be able to properly clean, inspect, and assemble your bearings correctly, ensuring your camper is safe for the road.
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Measure other identifying axle measurements
If you're replacing an axle, weight capacity is only one factor to consider when choosing the correct replacement. It's important that your new axle's dimensions are the same as your current axle's so that it fits properly under your trailer. Two crucial measurements to take are the hub face and spring centre. If you're caught between two axle capacities (for example, a 5,200 and 6,000-lb axle), these dimensions will help you choose the correct replacement axle.
You can also measure the bolt pattern on the hub, the size of the brakes, and the bearing part numbers. With this information, you can narrow down the size of the axle you have on your trailer.
Additionally, if your trailer has leaf spring axles, the beam diameter can give you an idea of the weight capacity range. Typically, an axle with a 2-3/8-inch diameter has a 3,500-lb weight rating, while an axle with a 3-inch diameter is usually rated for 6,000 or 7,000 lbs.
If your trailer is equipped with a torsion axle, you won't be able to determine the weight capacity based on the beam diameter. Instead, you can check the axle hub/drum bolt pattern. The number of wheel studs on the hubs can give you an idea of the axle's weight capacity. For example, an axle hub with four wheel studs is usually rated at 2,000 lbs or below, while an axle hub with eight wheel studs is rated at 7,000 lbs or more.
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Frequently asked questions
The weight rating of your camper's axle should be listed on the trailer's VIN plate or sticker. The axle itself could also have a tag or plate that lists the weight capacity.
If there is no sticker or plate, you can measure the diameter of the axle. The axle weight capacity can be determined based on the axle diameter.
Hold your measuring tape across the axle, parallel to the tires. You should have a measurement of a few inches.
If you cannot determine the weight capacity using the methods above, you can measure the bolt pattern on the hub, the size of the brakes, and the bearing part numbers. With this information, you can narrow down the capacity of your axle.