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Old 07-23-2013, 06:30 PM   #1
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Tandem axle trailers

I know this may be a dumb question but what, if any, are the major differences between towing a tandem vs a single axle trailer? I've never towed anything longer than the 17Z so any advice would be appreciated. I am, as you might imagine, most nervous about backing up if anything.

Thanks.
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Old 07-23-2013, 07:10 PM   #2
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I think the dual axles are easier to back. That being said the chief difference in the two is that the dual axle can carry and is needed to carry more weight.
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Old 07-23-2013, 07:17 PM   #3
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I've towed both single and dual. Rule of thumb back in the day.. if single, you can pull up to about 3000+-ish pounds. Dual wheels mean a heavier duty tow vehicle due to heavier tt. Towed single with a mini-van and 1/2 ton. Towed dual with only a half ton (.. wouldn't have with the minivan LOL). Big difference was the length and how to take tight turns, etc etc etc. If you have the right tow vehicle and set-up, other than length, you may not notice the tt back there
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Old 07-23-2013, 07:19 PM   #4
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Other thought.... whatever scares you the most about towing a longer length tt... Try searching on Youtube for that concern (ie: backing a trailer). There are some great how-to-tow videos out there
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Old 07-23-2013, 07:42 PM   #5
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Single axle trailers turn without scuffing tires, you only have two tires to blow out while driving, and as healthi stated they are lighter... that about sums up the pros

Tandem axle trailers are more stable, have less propensity to sway, better distribution of weight, better ride (less bouncing)...
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Old 07-23-2013, 09:10 PM   #6
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Originally Posted by Flyrotor View Post
Single axle trailers turn without scuffing tires, you only have two tires to blow out while driving, and as healthi stated they are lighter... that about sums up the pros

Tandem axle trailers are more stable, have less propensity to sway, better distribution of weight, better ride (less bouncing)...
X2

I would also add that a longer trailer is more stable and is easier to back up, as it does not react as quickly. If you are comfortable with your 17Z, you will not have any issues with that new 26’ Starcraft.

One thing you will notice while backing up, your tires may not look like they are in line with each other. That is normal, as there are a lot of stresses and the rims will flex and the sidewalls will flex, as the tires will scuff. It is all normal.
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Old 07-24-2013, 06:16 PM   #7
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Sounds like I should be ok once I get used to the extra length, thanks everyone.
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Old 07-28-2013, 08:45 PM   #8
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Coming from someone who, years ago, learned to back 50' trailers into place with one try, trust me when I say the longer the trailer, the easier to back. We have a 197 Feather and it is ten times as tricky to back as those old 50" trailers. Actually, the longer the distance between the hitch pin and the center of the trailer axle(s) is what makes it easier. Trailer length in itself isn't the determining factor. Clear as mud, eh?
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Old 07-29-2013, 07:40 AM   #9
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Originally Posted by kjohn73 View Post
Coming from someone who, years ago, learned to back 50' trailers into place with one try, trust me when I say the longer the trailer, the easier to back. We have a 197 Feather and it is ten times as tricky to back as those old 50" trailers. Actually, the longer the distance between the hitch pin and the center of the trailer axle(s) is what makes it easier. Trailer length in itself isn't the determining factor. Clear as mud, eh?
X2
Lots of factors to include to say what's easier towing but in general the longer the easier towing and easier to back up. IMHO A properly set up combo should provide some level of reassurance and not stress .
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