Adjustable Axle

[Supernaut]

I was considering my build and have often wondered about where the axle position should be exactly. Towing with a light vehicle means I want about the minimum tongue weight on the hitch. This could change with factors such as cargo loading and change of design plans. My plan is slightly more elaborate than a typical tear drop, with space for a dinette and head (in the form of porti-potty). Has anyone seen or built a trailer where the axle could be moved back or forth? It would be similar in idea to how the axles can be moved on many semi truck trailers.

One might argue that once you figure out the balance point there should be no need for the axle to move anymore. However, what if the cargo load out changes from one trip to another?

My current tent trailer frame I've started with would not be so ideal as is, with the leaf spring mounting points welded where they are in place.

[KCStudly]

Plan for at least a little weight on the tongue (5-10/ct minimum) with your standard load out and then when you have a heavier load you still have some margin for the tongue weight to go up and you will still be okay. You should be able to experiment some while loading to decide where to put things for the best balance, and unless you start hauling bricks or that proverbial "500 lbs of beer" it shouldn't be too hard to accommodate.

IMO it is better to try and stay light everywhere you can throughout the build, than it is to add a bunch of extra structural weight on something that really shouldn't be necessary.

Constantly think lighter and you will be okay with a small TV.

[drhill]

eh. a fellow Albertan. I welded up my trailer frame at Pigeon Lake.

I have an adjustable axle and I am glad I built it that way. Hopefully this works and you can check out my post below and also other pictures in my album.

viewtopic.php?f=2&t=61918&p=1106829#p1106829