the feasibility of half axles

[HeavyDinSC]

Guys, I didn't seen any thread about this and I was wondering if anyone has experience using half axles on a single axle trailer? I'm still finishing the rebuild of my trailer (for an '81 170) and I'm leaning toward the simplicity of a torsion axle to replace the rusting leaf springs and brackets that are crumbling. I've found a couple of sources for torsion axles that are actually bolt-on half axles rated for various loads. Has anyone gone this route before? You usually only see half axles on lighter weight trailers (for jet skis, motorcycles, etc.), and it seems like half axles would be less secure than a full axle that spans the entire width of the frame, but I'm not an engineer. Any thoughts are welcome.

[fitz73222]

Well it would appear that the installation protocol would be that you would also have to add a straight cross member in order to attach the inboard mounting flange of the half axle so where is the advantage over just mounting a torsion axle right to the frame rail? In either case the critical factor becomes mounting the replacement dead square or tire wear issues would prevail. I'm sure that can be overcome with precise measuring. One thing to add is that I would consider purchasing a new torsion axle that also incorporates Sure Lube hubs and the bleed hole that allow for complete flushing of new grease to the inner axle bearing and prevents over pressurizing the grease seal and eventual failure. That system is worth every penny for long bearing and seal life.

[HeavyDinSC]

Fitz,
Thanks. I think your reasoning is sound. I'm going to skip the half axles. My sense is that these products are only intended for light trailers hauling motorcycles or jet skis, etc. Thanks for the feedback.

[JNSchweik]

Just an added factor, I work at a NAPA auto parts store right on the coast about 2 blocks.  We specialize in trailer parts and I've been working here for almost 14 years so I have seen most of the combinations you can think of.

The torsion axles with sure lube fittings are the best hands down for long term in salt environment.  But, NOTHING competes with regular maintenance to prevent failure.  Pull your wheels/hubs off once a year and check everything out, wash the axle regularly, and keep a rust preventative like Fluid Film on anything you don't want to rust.  My hubs and torsion axles are rust free after 4 years of salt water only use.

[RickK]

That's good advice JNS.  I've never heard of Fluid Film until now.  Looks like I need to go find some and spray everything.

[JNSchweik]

The only people I have ever talked to who thought there was something better than Fluid Film are people who had not used it yet.  Coat your battery cable ends, electrical panels, ANYTHING you don't want to rust or corrode.  The stuff is amazing.  A lot of the master Techs around here will open the cowling and spray down almost the entire motor underneath LOL.