Towing & Hauling

Enclosed trailer question

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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 02:22 PM
  #1  
Dirtgood1's Avatar
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Enclosed trailer question

Hello, I am new to the board and finding alot of helpful info. I am looking into purchasing a 6X12 enclosed trailer to haul some tools and my motocross bike from texas to massachusetts.(2000 mile trip) My questionare: #1 Are there any benefits to a dual axle vs single axle trailers, besides load capacity. Do they tow better, easier, safer,etc. A rough estimate of the total weight (including trailer that I will be towing is appx. 3500-4000lbs(maybe less) #2 I will be towing with my 02 f150 4x2,w/4.2., will it be able to handle the approximate weight. I have towed a single axle 5X10 loaded with bikes/tools/gear with the really only noticable downside being a drop in fuel effeciency. The towing rating for my truck is 5500lbs and I am wondering if a dual axle will put less strain on the truck seeing that sitting level it supports more of it own weith vs transferring that weight to the truck. I have a trans cooler + temp gauge that I will be installing and I am also thinking of installing and engine oil cooler setup. Are there any other suggested mods? Right now I am thinking a dual axle trailer w/electric brakes is what I should get, not for the load capacity for this trip, but down the road when I get a larger tow vehicle. Any input would be appreciated thanks.
 
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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 07:35 PM
  #2  
APT's Avatar
APT
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From: Commerce Twp, MI
Single axle trailers are usually rated for about 2000 pounds of cargo plus the 1000 pounds ofthe trailer itself. If you plan to tow more than 2000 pounds, go for double axle. Double axle's are about 500 pounds empty more. Dual axle trailers tend to have torsion axles vs. cheaper spring axles for single trailers. Double axle traielrs aldo tend to cost about 50% more. They should tow about the same, except the spring axle bounces more than the torsions. Tounge weight should be about 10-15% of loaded trailer weight, so single or double doesn't matter.
 
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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 09:57 PM
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captain morgan8's Avatar
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I've got a single axle 6x12 Haulmark and it seems to bounce around alot in my opinion. If I ever get another enclosed trailer it will be a tandem, just because they pull smoother.
 
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Old Feb 10, 2007 | 08:14 AM
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From: New Mexico
Tandem is the way too go for a better ride and load handing.I've watched the single axles on trucks jump around being pulled empty or loaded.My tandem pulls great.You have the weight on 4 wheels not just 2 for better hauling.That's my 2 cents.
 
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Old Feb 10, 2007 | 08:51 AM
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Colorado Osprey's Avatar
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From: Colorado
Another tid-bit of wisdom.....a V-nose will help it cut through the air and give you a little additional room inside too for the same size trailer.

Anything to help cut the wind and maybe you can keep double digit gas milage.
 
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