Inferior quality and Federal Law

Posted by jdemaris on July 02, 2006 at 06:00:19 from (66.218.23.213):

In Reply to: Trailer Axles posted by doorman on July 01, 2006 at 21:32:30:

The axles used on mobile homes are not as good quality as intended for prolonged trailer use. The bearings are smaller per rated load capacity - since there are only intended for one trip. Also, fitting of parts is usually sloppy. A 5000 lb. rated mobile-home axle will not last anywhere near as long as a 5000 lb. axle intended for an equipment trailer if used constantly at rated capacity.
That being said - I use them with few problems - but I am aware of their limitations and use them accordingly. Also, I have found that the old style mobile-home axles - from the 50s - are much better quality than used today. Here is a citation from the Dexter axle company:
"AXLES - Can mobile home axles be reused?
The Dexter MH (mobile home) type axle is designed for limited usage in the delivery of manufactured homes and has a one-time limit use. The axle has steel forged spindles that are not precision ground. The brake assembly is welded onto the beam and not intended to be field replaced. Additionally, the bearing package is smaller than the more expensive service type axle. Most MH axles are also equipped with a single leaf spring suspension for very heavy loads. We do not have components that would convert MH axles to servicable assemblies. "

In regard to tires - Federal Law #571.139 states that any motor-vehicle, manufactured after 1975, with a GVRW under 10,000 lbs. and driven on a public highway must have DOT certified tires. The exceptions are low-speed vehicles (e.g. farm equipment) and motorcycles. Mobile-home tires are NOT DOT certified. Thus - technically - you are in violation using them in many circumstances. I've never been ticketed - but I have been warned. I have two trailers with mobile-home axles - but they both now have Goodyear DOT certified 14.5" tires.

Replies:

• Re: Inferior quality and Federal Law Kelly C 21:12:00 07/02/06 (0)
• Re: Inferior quality and Federal Law Coloken 06:09:31 07/02/06 (3)
  • Re: Inferior quality and Federal Law jdemaris 06:20:23 07/02/06 (2)
    • Re: Inferior quality and Federal Law Keith-OR 10:27:22 07/02/06 (0)
    • Re: Inferior quality and Federal Law Coloken 06:40:35 07/02/06 (0)

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