Another axle question

[alftinc]

Anyone out there have any information as to using a Harbor Freight 4x8 trailer and buying a wider axle to place on it to make a 5 wide. Would it be possible or wise, safe, whatever to do this and just extend the floor out 6 inches on each side, and front and back??? Thank you all in advance.

[Joe Staller]

That's exactly what I did----build a wood frame (used redwood 2X4's) that hung over the HF frame 6" in all directions to get a 9'X5' body. Then decided that I did not want the fender wells encroaching on my cabin space, so I ordered a custom axle that was 5' wide, but the spring holders were welded in place to match up with the HF springs. I can get you the details on the axle if you are interested.

Oh and I've put a few thousand miles on this rig with no problem.

[eamarquardt]

If you are going to buy an axle, why even think about a harbor freight frame. Do some networking and find a welder, buy some steel, and in a day you can have exactly what you want. I'm not a "real" engineer but I do have a bit of experience with mechanical things. The closer the spring mounts are to the hubs, the more stable/predictable your trailer will tow. By moving the spring mounts towards the centerline you change important geometry and could be setting yourself up for some wild oscillations. There's only one way to find out for sure, but I'd think twice.

Better safe than sorry.

Hope these thoughts help.

Cheers,

Gus