This article answers the popular question, How long do trailer axles last and what factors influence how long my axles last? For more questions on trailer axle life span, read this Trailer Life Expectancy Q&A.
Many factors can impact the longevity of your trailer axles. There isn’t an easy way to determine how long your trailer axle life span, but there are several things you should consider to get the most life out of this critical trailer part. Read this article to learn about how different factors can influence your trailer axle’s life span:
Trailer weight & tow load
The life expectancy of your axles can vary based on the type of trailer you haul.
Your trailer’s haul capacity plays a large role in how much wear you will put on your axles. This is why it’s important to select the correct spring axles to support the capacity of your trailer and your average tow load. More frequent, heavier hauls will always put more wear on your axles over time. This results in your axles wearing down more quickly over time, resulting in more frequent replacement.
Axle type
Torsion axles tend to wear better than spring axles because they require less maintenance. However, when torsion axles fail, they can be more costly than Spring axles to replace. Spring axles have more individual parts to maintain, but they are more durable and more cost-effective to replace..
Wear & tear
Hauling on uneven, dirt, and gravel roadways puts more wear on your trailer axles than driving on smooth roads. If your work will take you across aggressive hauling terrain, you need to consider more frequent axle repairs.
Hauling frequency
We mentioned that larger capacity trailers wear faster than smaller ones, but that wear can be accelerated by how frequently you’re hauling. Daily trailer use will lead to faster axle wear.
Axle replacement from BlueSwift Axles
While there are no guarantees for the life expectancy of your trailer, BlueSwift Axles recommends replacing your trailer axles every 3-5 years based on your trailer usage and the factors noted above. It’s important to also have your axles inspected to ensure they’re wearing properly and to get the most life out of them before replacement.
Click here to browse BlueSwift Axle’s full selection of trailer axles. Give us a call today if you need assistance ordering a replacement axle for your trailer.