Ask Matt - Upgrading Axles on a 20 Foot ATC Toy Hauler
Matt Van Dyke of Custom Outfitters answers your ATC questions.
Dan Butler from Colorado asks...
"Hi Matt,
I just joined the ATC owners forum and actually just ordered a new 20’ toy hauler yesterday from my Colorado dealer.
So I have an axle choice question and I’ll need to provide some info first..
I will be using the 20’ toy hauler to haul 2 or 3, 250# dirt bikes, occasionally full water at 853#, some tools, fuel, all our riding and camping gear etc., and basically near the max GVWR of the trailer with standard axles at 7700#, some of the time. Sometimes this will be on bumpy dirt roads etc. as well.
I expect the trailer to weigh around 5200# empty leaving a useful cargo load of around 2500#.
I ordered the trailer with 2-5200# axles instead of the 2-3500# axles and was offered the opinion by an ATC rep when submitting this custom request, that unless I use the trailer loaded fairly heavy it will ride rough and could begin cracking welds, suggesting the more is not better approach. Meanwhile, the ATC manager suggested the 5200# axles to remain more in the 60-70% axle load range.
There is still time to change the build order and go to standard axles, but is it better to be closer to the middle of the axle ratings and not the maximums?
In your opinion, what is the more appropriate choice axle rating for my needs and how much of a concern is it about ride roughness and weld cracking on ATC trailers?"
I just joined the ATC owners forum and actually just ordered a new 20’ toy hauler yesterday from my Colorado dealer.
So I have an axle choice question and I’ll need to provide some info first..
I will be using the 20’ toy hauler to haul 2 or 3, 250# dirt bikes, occasionally full water at 853#, some tools, fuel, all our riding and camping gear etc., and basically near the max GVWR of the trailer with standard axles at 7700#, some of the time. Sometimes this will be on bumpy dirt roads etc. as well.
I expect the trailer to weigh around 5200# empty leaving a useful cargo load of around 2500#.
I ordered the trailer with 2-5200# axles instead of the 2-3500# axles and was offered the opinion by an ATC rep when submitting this custom request, that unless I use the trailer loaded fairly heavy it will ride rough and could begin cracking welds, suggesting the more is not better approach. Meanwhile, the ATC manager suggested the 5200# axles to remain more in the 60-70% axle load range.
There is still time to change the build order and go to standard axles, but is it better to be closer to the middle of the axle ratings and not the maximums?
In your opinion, what is the more appropriate choice axle rating for my needs and how much of a concern is it about ride roughness and weld cracking on ATC trailers?"
Answer:
Dan, I would go with the 5200# axles. I have been upgrading to the same axles on any 20 foot units I order. I do not agree that it will ride more rough. I think your dealer may have said that because they're used to talking to a wide range of RVers with varying needs. But in this case, it sounds like you're a dirt rider like me, and you want durability and peace of mind. I personally don't like not having enough capacity.
I would also keep in mind that your future may change as far as toys go. You're much better off getting the bigger axles at the factory rather than try to upgrade them down the road.
Congrats on your purchase. You can't go wrong with an ATC.
Matt.
Visit Custom Outfitters or call Matt at (605) 838-8868.
Custom Outfitters
25935 482nd Avenue
Brandon, South Dakota 57005
Do you have a question for Matt about your ATC or Quest? Submit your question by emailing AskMatt@ATCOwners.com. Responses will be posted.
