Single versus dual axle

[Frank Acampora]

OK Gentlemen: I am refurbishing a trailer. It was originally dual axle but I have the option of converting to single axle. Weight is not a problem as it will only be carrying 2600 lbs (net) Tare: 1,000 lbs (single axle), Gross: 3600 lbs.

Given the same boat on it in either configuration, obviously the dual axle will have at least a little more drag and weigh say 150-200 lbs more, BUT, how much will it reduce the gas mileage of the tow vehicle? Drastic--like 3-4 mpg. --or slight like 1 or less mpg? Would there be any benefit to staying dual axle? Never had a dually before.

Anybody have some actual valid comparisons? Thanks.

[tashasdaddy]

that weight, with full fuel, gear, keep the dual axle, and put brakes on it.

[bruceb58]

I would also stay dual axle. The safety factor alone is important enough.

[DJ]

You're at the max of a single axle. I would not go any more.

The dual axle will not cause any undue drag or strain. About the only place you would notice it would be tight cornering or trying to move it around by hand.

If you go dual, put brakes on both axles.

[Gary H NC]

The dual axle will help it avoid any sway at higher speeds than a single axle would.Doubt you could tell any difference in gas mileage.

[rndn]

Agree with everyone. Keep the dual axle setup.

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Have had both and I would not go back to single axle.
Rides better going down the road and brakes on both axles are the cat's meow. IMHO.

[External Combustion]

Most have little experience with serious single axle rigs (20 K loads). Single axle loads can be OK. You must stay well within the axle tire load limit.

The sway will be less with tandem axles, yet if this is a consideration, then you need to re-evalute your rig and adjust the load. Tandem axels will give you a margin of safety over a single axle, especially if you only run single tires instead of duals. Popped tires can be exciting!

I use a single axle with dual tires on my 20K bulldozer hauling rig. The total load is 15K with 6K on the tounge. My heavy boat has a tandem axle with single tires. I have pulled it from the Gulf coast to the Canadian border with no problem, yet this year I am converting it to a triple axle rig to get the tire loading below 60%.

For your rig, I would recommend tandem axles with single tires. It will provide a good safety margine if you pop a tire and will cost les than a single/dual set up. Tire scuffing on tandem axles is greatly overated. Unless you have triple axles or spaced tandems, then scuffing will not be a factor unless you pull your rig many miles daily.

[jay_merrill]

Keep the dual axle ... the overall ride will be much better. A properly set up single axle/boat combination can be fine but at 3,000 lbs + total weight, I think you would notice the difference quite a bit.

[QC]

I turn a double axle by hand, you'd be surprised how easily they turn. Yes, you gotta lean on them, but it's not a big deal. Stick with the dual and run max tire pressures for best fuel economy . . .