Wheels bend when turning

[sebas54]

Hi, I have a 2001 5 starrs tandem axle roller trailer. I use it for a 1980 22' auqasport.

When I turn or especially when I am backing up and turning the wheel it looks like they might bend and snap off. I have been driving the trailer like that for some time now. I actually trailer my boat to the Keys from NY with the wheels like that. I have checked the bearings and they seem fine. I keep them greased and the trailer works great. Actually when on the highway the trailer sways a little but I thought that it might be because I am using a 2 door explorer V6. Now that I think about it may be related to the wheels. The only thing I can think of is the hubs????

I brought the trailer to the shop before my road trip and they sayed it was in perfect condition but the wheels still bend.

Are trailers designed this way???



Please help I don't want to wait till it is too late.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Wheels bend when turning

I take it this is a tandem (dual axle) trailer and if so, when making sharp turns the wheels have no option but to skid. There is no steering so the tires will distort and and wheels look like they lay over a bit. Perfectly normal on a tandem trailer. Large trailer and Explorer are synonomous with trailer sway. I have witnessed more early Explorer rollovers and spin outs than with any other vehicle. One was with an empty box trailer. Darndest thing I ever saw. Sway however can be minimized by making sure the tongue weight is about 10% of the total trailer weight. Some say 7% but 10% is a good number and even 15% is acceptable. Too little is worse than too much (within reason of course).

 

[BaileysBoat]

Re: Wheels bend when turning

All tandem trailers tend to scuff the front wheels on a tight turn. Good idea the shop checked it out before the triip. .

Having said that, way to much weight for the Exploder,

 

[cbavier]

Re: Wheels bend when turning

Seabass when backing your trailer don't cut it so sharp. The tires as stated above will lay over and if you lay them over too much. You will pop them right off the rims. So just make your cuts and backing especially, gradual/wide. That is why trailer tires should be ST designated. They have stronger sidewalls than passenger tires.

 

[sebas54]

Re: Wheels bend when turning

Thanks for all the helpful info. I really appreciate it.

I try to make my turns as wide as possible but a lot of time I find myself in real awkward situations with the trailer. On my way back from the Keys I needed new tire because the tire were completely bald from backing up at numerous ramps and inept hotel parking. I am glad that it is normal and for the most part don't have to worry so much.

Thanks again.