The following guide answers the popular question – How do you order a trailer axle from BlueSwift Axles?
Ordering a trailer from BlueSwift Axles is simple and only takes a few minutes. Follow this step-by-step guide and get back on the road quickly with your new axles.
Step 1: Determine Which Axle You Need
BlueSwift Axles manufactures two different types of axles: Spring and Torsion. The first step in ordering your new axle is understanding which type of axle you need for your trailer. It is possible to switch out a spring axle for a torsion axle and vice versa, but knowing the differences between the torsion and spring axles can help you understand the pros and cons of each type.
Spring Axle
|
Torsion Axle
|
 |
 |
Step 2: Measure Your Axle
After you have determined which type of axle you need, you need to measure the axle.
Spring Axle
To measure your spring axle, you will need to remove the tires and locate 2 straight edges and a tape measure. Watch this video to learn how to accurately measure your spring axle.
Torsion Axle
To measure your torsion axle, you will need to remove the tires and locate a framing square or “L” shaped ruler and a tape measure. Watch this video to learn how to accurately measure your spring axle.
Step 3: Identify Other Features & Measurements
Torsion Axles
For ordering a torsion axle, you will need to identify the following features.
Bracket Orientation
Long leg in or long leg out are the two options for bracket orientation. The image below visually shows you how to define which option you need.
Trailing Arm Angles
When ordering your torsion axle, it’s best to specify the desired angle. When the angle is ‘UP’, then it accomplishes a small “drop”. If the angle is “DOWN”, it gives the trailer a lift.
Photo credit: Mechanical Elements
Bolt Circle
There are many different bolt patterns available for axles. Before ordering your axle, double check that the bolt pattern of the wheels match the pattern of the axle. Bolt patterns that have more lugs are typically used to haul heavier loads.
For a how-to guide on how to measure your bolt pattern, read this article by Mechanical Elements.
Spring Axles
Straight versus Drop Spring Axle
A straight axle is a straight beam with hubs at the ends. A drop axle allows the trailer to sit lower.
Spring Type
BlueSwift Axles offers one spring type – Eye Eye. Typically Double Eye spring styles are best for both single and multiple trailer axles.
Spring Pads
Overslung or underslung springs impact the overall trailer bed height, clearance, and stability.
Overslung – When trailer axles have the sprints mounted on top
Underslung – When the springs are mounted underneath
Learn more about overslung and underslung trailer springs here.
Bolt Circle
There are many different bolt patterns available for axles. Before ordering your axle, double check that the bolt pattern of the wheels match the pattern of the axle. Bolt patterns that have more lugs are typically used to haul heavier loads.
For a how-to guide on how to measure your bolt pattern, read this article by Mechanical Elements.
Step 4: Choose Your Shipping Option
BlueSwift Axles offers 48 hour manufacturing and rush shipping options for certain destinations. For qualifying locations, our Rush Shipping Rate means the order is shipped within 48 hours. Orders can also be picked up at our warehouse in Des Moines, IA.