Huntindog wrote:
Wide spacing is primarily done so a lighter weight frame can be used. As the OP noted, it is popular in the ultra light class.
My concern on tight turns isn't the tire scuffing. But the added strain on the spring hangers. I have had these break on me on normal spaced/heavy framed units.
This is a major PITA. Had to go home empty, get my jacks, stands , welder grinder and generator to weld it up in camp, as the TT was not safe to move.
With the lighter weight frame, this is more likely to occur.
It is not something that happens over night, but overtime as the metal fatigues.
If I had one of these units, I would try hard to avoid sharp turns, and inspect the hangers before every trip.
You are correct.
I haven't made a living out of hauling trailers across the country, but I have hauled several of mine across the country at very high freeway speeds. I have never had an issue with the handling of one of my trailers. I've been building equipment trailers on and off since 1975. I used to have an overhead crane and a nice place to work, now I still have the jig, but I don't make these for resale anymore. I've built enough of them over the years to say that I have a reasonable amount of experience on what works. As I stated earlier, if I had the choice, I would pick the standard spacing with the stronger frame. The reasons are somewhat obvious, but to state that the further spread axles tow better is probably an overstatement. Any misaglignment of a wider spread axle will be magnified by the distance the axles are spread apart. Also remember that misaligned axles will "fight" each other when trying to track straight, in either configuration, but the issue is magnified as the axles are spread apart. I have built the triple axle trailers before and years ago I came to the conclusion that it is better to stick with a heavy tandem axle and then go right to tandem duals and skip the triple axle trailer. The tire scuffing is an issue and the heavier the load the more of an issue it becomes. Having said that, one of the nicest towing travel trailers that I have owned is a triple axle unit, but it doesn't have enough weight to rip the tires apart unless you continuously make "U" turns with it.
For those concerned, don't be afraid of the trailers with the wide spread axles. The manufacturers do this for weight and frame reasons. They will tow just fine as long as they are built properly. You just need to understand the tire scuffing issue which does put more strain on the suspension components.
If someone runs across a trailer that doesn't tow well and fish tails, my bet is a tongue weight issue more than an axle spread issue.
Safe towing to everyone. Have a nice day.
