Has anyone started a TD with one of these?

[asianflava]

A couple folks have used 3500lb axles on their "offroad" trailers, but they used regular axles instead of torsion axles. Even though they used a heavier axle, (more durable) they reduced the number of leafs in the spring pack so that the trailer would ride better.

[angib]

If you fancy, and have got, an overkill frame and the means to easily tow it around, then using it isn't going to be a big problem. But the axle is different.

It's tempting to look at 3500lb axle and think it's twice as good as a 2000lb axle, when really it's not even as good. Put a 1000-1200lb typical teardrop on a 3500lb axle and you'll get no suspension movement at all. The axle will last forever and never break - but it will beat the teardrop body, and its contents, to pieces because road shocks will be transmitted straight to the body.

Andrew

[Alphacarina]

I never said I was planning on building a 3500lb teardrop

Then if you're going to use a torsion axle, you'll want to get one rated at the approximate weight of your finished teardrop - Not 3500 pounds

With a spring axle, you can sort of 'make do' by by removing a spring leaf or two but a 3500 pound torsion axle isn't good for much except for use on a 3500 pound trailer

It's a good looking trailer - You can use it to haul a small car or tractor but it's not much good as a starting point for a lightweight trailer

Don

[DJBear]

Okay, everyone... and thanks...

Back to the ol' drawin' board