Axle choice questions for diy. Grand Caravan/Town & Country vs Toyota Sienna

[deepmud]

I would say there is something to be said for "Junk Yard" - it's purpose built to last 100,000 miles or more. My trailer is built from "junk yard parts" that had 180,000 miles on it when I started. I've run 15-20k on it since, I'll be hard-pressed to add another 10k in my lifetime, but it's holding up great. I like the semi-trailing, anti-sway design of the seienna you posted, but I like the Dodge design too.

Figure a mini van with 8 people and luggage on board, some tongue weight from a travel trailer - the axle has to have a pretty impressive load rating.

[unabashedpraise]

It is amazing how quickly trailers start to get heavy. My CDN M101 is rated at 700# stock. I have added a lid (60#), an RTT (150#), a battery box with a group 24 and some other stuff (60#+), an extended tongue, supports, struts, jacks, and bigger wheels and tires. Probably another 100# there. Once you add in gear, water, propane, fuel cans, food etc...you can get way close to 2000# without even trying in a 4x6 trailer.

Do the 3500# if you are going steel frame and box... do it once, do it right, and put an axle that either comes with brakes or can be retrofitted for electric brakes. I am going to swap out the backing plates on mine this year for ones with brakes.

Happy building!!

Good advice, thank you. I will probably post a few ideas today or tomorrow.

[unabashedpraise]

http://abctrailerparts.com/straightkit.html

[GregB_00XJ]

http://abctrailerparts.com/straightkit.html

Good find... good deal too.