Odd tandem axle set up

[starcraftkid]

The trailer that came under my Starcraft Capri has two independently hung axles, which are spread a bit farther apart than normal too.

Both axles are fixed position, the shackle hangers are welded in place, it's got four 1,000lb springs on two one ton axles.

It uses four slipper springs each mounted to it's own brackets.
One thing I notice is that on uneven ground, or when backing down a ramp, it often leaves the second axle hanging in mid air. It tows great, but I suppose that's due to the fact that the axles are at the very back of the trailer and there's a few hundred pounds of tongue weight. The boat only weighs in at about 1250lb or so with the 50hp motor on it now, and I tend to keep most of the weight towards the stern when towing too.
The trailer came from FL, its made by Web On trailers in Miami.
I see they still make the same trailer, so I'm not sure how old this one is, but the boat is a 1973.

I do have to lower the boat a bit on the trailer. The bunks sit about 3" higher than they need to. And I can probably lower the fenders a tad bit too to gain even more room.

Is there any advantage or reason for the axles being spread apart or hung separate without an equalizer bar in between the springs?

 

[Bifflefan]

Re: Odd tandem axle set up

The farther they are apart the better it will tow on the hwy. But the down side is its harder to turn sharp, and a little harder on the trailer and tires to do so.

As for the suspension, That is just one of the options for mounting the springs. You have stated most of the down sides for it, You need to make sure that it is level when towing under most circumstances. So you get the best performance from it.
The load equalizers on most trailers take the guess work out of making sure its level when towing and keep both axles on the ground in most instances.

 

[starcraftkid]

Re: Odd tandem axle set up

With the light load that it's carrying, it could get away with only one axle, but if I removed the rear, I'd not have enough tongue weight, and if I removed the front axle, I'd have too much.

The boat is only about 1200lbs with it's motor, the trailer is sprung for 4,000.
The boat does fit the trailer really well, and it's even better now that I lowered the bunks a few inches. I'm also thinking about switching to 12" tires to lower the trailer a bit more for easier loading. Right now it's a bit tough to get the boat to float off, the keel is about 26" from the ground.

The overall fender length is 72", far more than any other tandem fender set I've had. Most are not much more than 60" or so.

The springs, hubs, axles, and hardware are all like new for being an older trailer and the thing has no rust to speak of for being so old. I'm guessing it's at least from the 1980's or older. It does tow nice, and it's quiet as well, not a lot of banging and squeaking like I get from my other trailers.
If it would only fit in the garage it would be perfect.