Axle rating for a 1992 Dutchmen 18 ft trailer

[JDE]

I recently purchased a 1992 Dutchmen 18 ft tow-behind trailer. It's in fairly good shape, but the federal certification tag on the side showing GVWR, GAWR, tire load, etc., is completely unreadable. I want to replace all four hub/drum electric brakes on this duel axle trailer, but I think a need the axle rating to buy the right parts. I wrote the Dutchmen company, but they were no help. If anyone has a similar trailer or that information, I would be grateful for that info.

[franktafl]

Have you tried researching with the VIN?

[JDE]

Good suggestion, thanks. Didn't have any luck with the VIN number. There must be someone out there who has an 18 ft Dutchmen trailer.

[dsol]

Keep in mind you are talking about a 30 year old trailer. Plus manufacturers change components all the time so the likelihood is small. Shouldn’t the axle itself or the hubs have some identifying marks you can find and research?

[Ovalvw]

Should be 5 lug on 4 1/2 pattern =3500 lb axels

[JDE]

Thanks for that. I found something on the internet that showed axle capacity by diameter.

1,000-lb - 2,000lb axles: 1-1/2" - 1-3/4" diameter
3,500-lb - axles: 2-3/8 diameter (can have a 3-1/2 diameter, but rarely)
6,000-lb - 7,200-lb axles: 3" diameter
8.000-lb axles: 3-1/2" diameter
9,000-lb axles: 4" diameter
10,000-lb or more axles: 5" diameter

As with everything on the web, you have to take it with a grain of salt, however, my axles measure 2-3/8" and I've discovered my trailer weight is 3440lb, so 3,500-lb would make sense.