Adding a second axle

[Lee Ward]

After reading through the mod section carefully I see there are two different measurements used for the distance to move the new axle forward and the old one back. I've seen it written as 15 and 18 inches. I have larger 15 inch tires on my trailer and wondering if anyone knows the measurement. I assume the wheels have to clear each other by an inch or so? Also, how do I index the new trailing link?
I was told by waymeyers that they probably won't carry this axle anymore after this year, if anybody is considering this mod you should keep this in mind.

[Tomfoolery]

The distance you would move the original depends on two things: 1) where you want the midpoint between the two axles to be, and 2) how far apart you want the wheels, to fit the fenders. Maybe there's a 3) are the frame rails still parallel as you go forward to where you want that axle, of course.

If using a single double fender on each side, then you need to know how big it is for the wheels aren't too so far apart that they hit the fenders. And the location of the midpoint determines the tongue load. Some folks move that point back a little to increase the tongue load, if they feel it's too light with the single axle. Two axles with equal suspension, centered on the original point, won't change the tongue load. Moving them back will increase it.

[Russ]

I'm assuming the aluminum trailer axle.

Here's a thread I started when I did mine. It's an easy mod. Even I could do it myself.
http://www.macgregorsailors.com/forum/v ... 11&t=21751

I did center the 2 axles on the previous location. Moved the existing one 16" forward and added the second 16" back from where the original was. Seems to be well balanced.

One thing that struck me odd was with a second axle, my trailer now floats.

[Lee Ward]

Thanks guys. Russ, what size tires do you have on there? The trailer is an aluminum 2009.

[Russ]

I don't recall the tire size. Same as original.
It seemed smart to just buy 4 new tires/wheels for the new configuration. Then I took one of the originals for a spare and sold the the other on craigslist. 4 tires/wheels weren't that expensive. Note the weight capacity if you do this.

My trailer is 2008 model.

[Lee Ward]

Another question, I assume I have to fabricate the second bunk support? Can anyone share details on the bunk supports?
Specifically the steel parts.

[mrron_tx]

I'm assuming the aluminum trailer axle.

Here's a thread I started when I did mine. It's an easy mod. Even I could do it myself.
http://www.macgregorsailors.com/forum/v ... 11&t=21751

I did center the 2 axles on the previous location. Moved the existing one 16" forward and added the second 16" back from where the original was. Seems to be well balanced.

One thing that struck me odd was with a second axle, my trailer now floats.

Ditto Russ....They will actually float sideways with a current. Or at least mine does

[Russ]

Another question, I assume I have to fabricate the second bunk support? Can anyone share details on the bunk supports?
Specifically the steel parts.

I didn't add another set of bunks. I just added a carpeted block on the second (rear) axle. The boat rests mostly on both axles.
It's probably best to fabricate a support, but I haven't found it necessary. It wouldn't be hard to fabricate out of aluminum.

[Lee Ward]

I was looking at the boat last night and the extra layup(s) for the axle extend for about 1-2 feet to either side of where the axle is in relation. Moving the axles forward and back would still fall within the thickened area, so a second crossbar may not be necessary, but I think I'm going to bend a piece up to fit. About the trailing link, did yours come already attached or did you have to index it on the splined shaft of the axle? Thanks for your help on this.

[Russ]

My trailer shop "Sixroblees" ordered the axle for me using the serial number of the old one. It came all assembled on the spline. I just had to drill holes in the trailer frame and bolt it in.