Joe Mahlik
Member
I usually hang out in the skid steer section but now I have a question regarding the trailer I recently purchased to haul my 1835c skid steer. I've read many threads on many different forums on the differences between 5.2k and 6k axels and I have yet to come across a clear concise answer so I'm hoping someone here can clarify for me. I've recently purchased a 1997 Holt Trailers 18ft car hauler. This trailer has 12" 6 lug hubs, with 15in wheels, two 6k axles(per the tags on the axles) and brakes on all 4 wheels. Axels have #42 spindles which when I search the web it's says #42 spindles and are used on 5.2k to 7k axles, along with the size wheel bearings I have. The trailer has 6" C channel for main frame and toungue. Crossmembers are 3" C channel on 16" centers. Springs are 2" 5 leaf springs 25" center to center of eyes which I see is a common size on 5.2 to 7k axels. All that said... the trailer had no data tag so I contacted Holt Trailer and gave them the vin and they confirmed that my trailer left manufacturing with 5.2k axels. My question...what kept Holt from rating this as a 12k trailer. Between the 6k axels and all the axle hardware/components being compatible with 5.2 to 7k axels, can I use this trailer as a 12k trailer? The construction of the trailer also mirrors that of most 14k trailers I see, less the 6 lug hubs. Is there a very good reason Holt didn't rate this trailer for 12k? Am I missing something? The axels are original BTW as the dates on the axel tags very closely match the manufacture date of the trailer. Any insight is much appreciated. Thanks.