Which route is better? I have an 11,500 pound excavator. I am going to build a trailer (bumper pull) to haul it. I can go with either two 7,000lb axles or three 5,000lb axles.

For that much wieight I would do 3 axles.. and If the price was not a hug difference for 5000 to 7000 I would run 3 7000 so that way I never have to worry about it :)

On my two car hauler, I went tandem 7k because in certain states (ie Ca) 3 axles automatically classes you differently. It also is a little lighter, and depends on who you ask turns easier. With long deck bumper tow, I am happier with the tigher turning radius.

Advantages triple axle (I would also do triple 7k if going to the effort), more brakes, tires, etc, so stronger braking and less ground pressure, should be easier to balance, and if you get a flat at speed, more stability.

Probably either is fine and both have advantages.

2x 7k
Much less tire scrub and more manueverable.

Most large horse trailers are now going to tandem axles because of the scrub. people were pulling tires off left and right and so they now design them with two larger capacity axles. I would go with two 7k or more instead of three. It's such a pain in the ass to turn three axle trailers.

-ben

I always find that you get noticed less by Highway patrol when you have Tandem Axles. I have never been pulled over more than with towing my triple axle boat trailer.

I always find that you get noticed less by Highway patrol when you have Tandem Axles. I have never been pulled over more than with towing my triple axle boat trailer.
is this a joke or what????

and two is much better, the horse trailer example is a great one, seen a couple of them completely snap lugs and such from the scrub since they are always turning and manuvering them into tight spaces. just my 2 cents

ya, i have to be careful with my triple axle toy hauler when loaded. turning in tight spaces on concrete gets really harry when those tires look like they are about to just pop off.:eek:

Gonna do the two axles.