Timbren Axle-Less System for 2,000 Pound Homemade Off-Road Trailer

Question

Question:

Hi there! I am building a small camping trailer to pull behind my Jeep Wrangler. I am interested in the Timbren suspension system but am unsure which to choose from. Plan on running 37x12.5x17 tires on 17 x 9 -12, 6 x 5.5” bolt pattern wheels. 1. The trailer will not be heavy, weight wise under 2k pounds. As you can see from attached diagram, frame is built out of 2inch x 2inch tubing. I am wondering with the bolt-on Timbren configuration if the 2inch x 2inch frame is undersized for the rigors of offroad and highway use and abuse, combined with the oversize tires. 2. I would like to incorporate an electronic brake kit as well. 3. I dont have any experience with Timbrens and want to make sure I order the correct size, hubs, etc the first time. I am building from the ground up and can make any changes or modifications based upon your experience or recommendations. Please advise Thanks!

asked by: Don Z

0

Expert Reply:

The Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System # ASR1THDS01 that you were looking at is the best setup for your particular application, however there are a couple of things you will want to note both with regards to the frame size/type you plan on using and the wheel/tire size you have in mind.

I reached out to my contact at Timbren to get his thoughts on this as well. He said that this particular system will work on a 2" x 2" frame tubing but it's probably about the smallest that you will want to use. He said if at all possible he'd be more comfortable with just a tad larger - even a 2-1/2" frame tube, for a secure install that ensures the bolts are going through a solid portion of the frame. Either way though (whether you stick with a 2" frame or go with a slightly larger size) I highly recommend adding a crosstube between the units to add stability. This will provide a lot of benefit for off-road applications in particular to create a more durable setup that's better able to withstand the type of bounce and movement you're looking at.

Now the spindles on this particular system are designed to accept 1,750 pound hubs like the Dexter # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K (paired with # 23-27 and # 23-26 for Right and Left Hand Brake Assemblies). The largest wheel size this hub and drum is compatible with is a 15 inch unit. Mounting a wheel that's any larger creates a potential risk of damage since there won't be enough surface area for contact between the wheel and hub. This can result in the wheel coming loose during travel, especially during off-road situations.

Now technically you could move up to a larger capacity Axle-Less System that is compatible with higher-rated/larger hubs (which would then be compatible with larger wheels), but you would need to go up to at least a 5,200 pound system. My contact at Timbren says they always recommend that the actual loaded weight of the trailer is at least around 80 percent of the capacity on the Timbren System. This ensures a smooth ride and proper suspension travel. An over-rated system is going to create a really rough ride that will not only affect any cargo you have stored on it but also your driving experience in the Jeep.

With all of this in mind my best recommendation is the above-mentioned 2,200 pound system with hubs/brakes paired with 15 inch wheels. This will give you the best overall experience with your home built trailer.

Now as for the rest of the wiring that will be required on the trailer to actually power those brakes, I have attached a great article below that details everything else you will need.