tandem vs single axel

[k-belly]

given about the same weight would a tandem axle trailer be smoother over washboard or rocky roads than a single axle? or would it bounce twice as much since it has twice as many tires? In particular I am thinking about small fiberglass trailers which have rubber torsion axles.

[two2go]

Short answer, yes. In our past RV life we owned two smaller single axle trailers as well as two tandem axle fifth wheels. The single axle trailers really shook over washboard roads and the shock was transmitted through the equalizer hitch to the tow vehicle making for slow rough travel. A tandem setup is somewhat self-correcting and absorbs the uneven bouncing without transmitting it all to the tongue. Shock absorbers help too. I had them on both tandems, and they probably would have helped the singles.

[FiverBob]

Another negative of the tandem wheels is it normally requires the frame and springs to be moved in closer to the center of the trailer. This requires stiffer suspension to reduce sway in the trailer. Twin axles definitely ride smoother - - Triples even better but the negative there becomes tire scuffing and two more tires on the road to replace. UGH

Bob

[Ray,IN]

Bob, are you confusing tandem axles and dual wheels? Dual wheels fit your description much better than tandem axles.

[FiverBob]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ray,IN Bob, are you confusing tandem axles and dual wheels? Dual wheels fit your description much better than tandem axles.

DUH - - not confusing it - - just not reading it completely before answering. I just fell of the end of the trailer going over the last bump - - must be a single axle.

[gearman]

My opinion, it does not matter if you have one, two or three axles when it comes to bouncing on wash board. It has everything to do with how the springs are loaded and how fast your going, what tires you have and how much air is in them.

I say, multiple axles will ride smoother in most cases, just because you have the weight spread over 4 tires. Possibility of all 4 tires hitting peaks and valleys at the same time is less likely.

just my 2 cents

[Between Trips]

3 tires and wheels to replace instead of 5, less maintenance and replacement parts (bearings and brakes) are certainly advantages for owning a single axle trailer.

However, tandem axle trailers are less prone to sway, track better, and are easier to maneuver IMO.