A tandem axle trailer has two axles and at least four wheels for stability and strength when transporting heavy items. It can be enclosed or open-air and requires a strong vehicle to haul it. It must be built properly and may require a braking system depending on local laws.
A tandem axle trailer is a unit designed to transport items behind a vehicle; This trailer will feature two axles on which at least four wheels can be mounted. Extra axles and wheels provide stability and strength, and these trailers are typically used to transport heavy items. The style and function of a tandem axle trailer can vary significantly; some are enclosed units that protect stored items from sunlight, rain, and other potentially damaging elements, while others are open-air models with rear doors that can be lowered to create a loading ramp.
The connection of the trailer to a vehicle is accomplished through the use of a vehicle-mounted hitch receiver and a hitch designed into the frame of the tandem axle trailer. Chains typically connect the trailer and vehicle to act as a backup safety mechanism in case the hitch system fails. A tandem axle trailer tends to be longer and heavier than single axle models, so the vehicle hauling the trailer will need to be strong enough to haul both the unladen trailer and the loaded trailer. Larger vehicles such as SUVs and pickup trucks are best suited for the task, while smaller cars may not be able to safely transport the unit.
Like other types of trailers, the tandem axle trailer must be properly built to be street legal. Stop lights must be mounted somewhere on the trailer, just like a mount for a license plate, and the axles, wheels, and tires will need to be a certain size to be used safely on the roads. The structure of the tandem axle trailer must be built in such a way that it is straight and balanced, avoiding a loss of control when operating at higher speeds.
The two axles on the tandem axle trailer are usually non-powered or passive axles. These axles simply roll and do not provide any forward power or thrust to the system. The towing vehicle provides all the power, although some heavier trailers will feature braking systems to help slow the unit down during deceleration. In some areas, a braking system may be required for trailers of a certain size, so it is best to research your local laws and regulations before purchasing a larger trailer. Laws may also dictate that items being towed on a trailer must be tied down or otherwise secured when towed on highways.
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