2 axle vs 3 axle
02-07-2010 | 02:53 PM
#1
Thread Starter
clean sweep
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 47
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From: arcola, illinois
2 axle vs 3 axle
Looking at late model 35' fountain. I figure total weight at approx 12M with trailer, boat and fuel. This boat is on a 2 axle trailer. Previous boats I have owned and towed where same length but where on 3 axle trailers. I realize 2 axle has bigger tires and can handle the load, but wanted any real life differences I will see in pulling a 2 axle. Trailer is a Myco which I know is top notch and no problem... Pulling with F250 diesel. COMMENTS........
02-07-2010 | 03:58 PM
#2
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Joined: May 2001
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From: Worldwide
That setup ought to be OK.
However, I prefer a triple axle trailer, period.
Why:
1) On a tandem, if you blow a front tire/lose a wheel, your trailer automatically transfers more tongue weight to the tow vehicle, making the steering less responsive, and could lead to handling problems.
2) On a tandem, if you blow a rear tire/lose a wheel, your trailer automatically transfers tongue weight AWAY from the tow vehicle, lifting the rear of the tow vehicle, which could lead to handling problems.
3) When you are ascending/descending (steep) boat ramps, there is a moment in time when you are resting almost the entire weight of the trailer on the forward axle. You are more likely to bend something at this moment. On a tandem axle trailer, you are affecting 50% of trailer when this happens; on a triple, only 33%, and you still have two good axles should you compromise the first.
4) On a tandem axle trailer, you are more likely to have your axles fall off the end of a ramp, as they are set further aft. On a triple axle trailer, you have axle placement more forward, which may allow you to use a short ramp much easier.
However, I prefer a triple axle trailer, period.
Why:
1) On a tandem, if you blow a front tire/lose a wheel, your trailer automatically transfers more tongue weight to the tow vehicle, making the steering less responsive, and could lead to handling problems.
2) On a tandem, if you blow a rear tire/lose a wheel, your trailer automatically transfers tongue weight AWAY from the tow vehicle, lifting the rear of the tow vehicle, which could lead to handling problems.
3) When you are ascending/descending (steep) boat ramps, there is a moment in time when you are resting almost the entire weight of the trailer on the forward axle. You are more likely to bend something at this moment. On a tandem axle trailer, you are affecting 50% of trailer when this happens; on a triple, only 33%, and you still have two good axles should you compromise the first.
4) On a tandem axle trailer, you are more likely to have your axles fall off the end of a ramp, as they are set further aft. On a triple axle trailer, you have axle placement more forward, which may allow you to use a short ramp much easier.
