Tandem axle too much?

[Whiskeysmoke]

Hello All.

I realize I am breaking protocol by asking questions before introductions but I am crunched for time and forced to just jump into the conversation. I have access to a 10x6 tandem axle trailer frame. I have not even inspected it yet to see if the bearings turn but the price is too good not to consider it. To my question. Is two axles one too many for a 10ft frame? Weight is not an issue. My tow vehicle is a 3/4 ton Chevy. Thank you all in advance.


Curt

[MtnDon]

You will find a divergence of opinions on this.

I believe in only using what is needed for the needed carrying capacity. Others swear that the redundacy of two axles is the only way to go.

If we assume the gross weight will be well within the capacity of one axle, two tires, I see the lesser gross weight as a big plus. 2 tires have less rolling friction. 2 tires eliminates tire scrub on tight radius turns. 2 tires provides more usable side length for a side door if that matters at all. 4 tires means more maintenace and greater costs when replacing tires. Maintain good tire pressure, don't run tires more than 5 or 6 years nomatter how much tread is left. That's my thoughts. Haven't had a rolling tire problem in 30+ years.

Does the "great price" trailer have brakes and do you want them?

[KCStudly]

Does the too good to be true trailer need a lot of work to bring it up to snuff and get it back into working condition? Many times a good deal isn't the best way to start if you have a particular build style in mind. It might be better to start with something that more closely matches your end goal (likely).

Not saying there isn't a worthy deal out there, just saying that "my truck will pull it" isn't the best reason to compromise your intended purpose.

It depends on what you want to end up with.

[Whiskeysmoke]

Thanks for the replies. I am looking at a standy, possibly a pop-up. I already have a HF 4x8 so that was my original planned starter frame. I have seen all(most) of the builds here that used the HF base and most are just not quite big enough for my plans. Interior width is my biggest concern as I want to place the bed crosswise and not bang my head against the walls. I am seriously intrigued by the foamies and will most likely go that route if I stay with the HF. The tandem frame opens up the possibility of wood construction and solves my width issues. Downside has already been stated in the two previous replies. The seller has not yet replied to my questions regarding age, last time on the road, or WILL IT ROLL?!? Thanks again for helping the new guy.

Curt

[alaska teardrop]

Welcome aboard, Curt.

That looks like it could be a fine chassis for a stand-up once cleaned & painted. Two suggestions that in the end might save work & expense;

Replace the axles & springs with a single bolt on torsion axle with the correct load rating and brakes. There are 'stickies' above in this forum that explain how to do it.

And wait to order the axle until your trailer is built to the point where you can determine weight & balance.

Fred

[bobhenry]

Here was my thoughts on a previous thread........

http://tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=63921&p=1138140#p1138140

[Whiskeysmoke]

Well.... For $200 I couldn't pass it up. I pick it up tomorrow and begin my planning all over again. Heck, if it doesn't work out as a camper frame I will build a barbecue trailer and start competing.

[DrewsBrews]

5x tires will probably triple the trailer cost.

[webpager]

I don't know if it is everywhere but I believe, at least in California, that a dual axle trailer requires it's own brakes. I would wholeheartedly agree with what Alaska teardrop said.

[Dale M.]

I don't know if it is everywhere but I believe, at least in California, that a dual axle trailer requires it's own brakes. I would wholeheartedly agree with what Alaska teardrop said.

In Calif its not axle count count.... IT's anything over 1500 pounds....

Dale

[mjewell5]

To me, a tandem axle sort of defeats the definition of a teardrop, which is a small camper capable of being pulled around by a small car. If you want to use the tandem, why not build a bigger, more conventional camper that will give you everything you want. That way you could get the height and width you want, and not bump your head in it.