The Single Axle VS The Tandem Axle Trailer:

So you are in the market for a trailer to get your boat to and from the lake, but aren’t sure if you should be looking for a single axle or a tandem axle trailer…does it really make a difference?

Yes, yes it does.  While one is not necessarily better than the other, both options will give you a different set of features that are worth exploring.

Let’s start with the basics!

An axle refers to a rod or spindle that passes through the centre of a wheel or group of wheels.

And as the name implies, the term single axle trailer refers to a trailer that has only one axle connected to a wheel on either side of the trailer.

On the other end of the spectrum, the tandem axle boasts two axles within close proximity which are both connected to a wheel on either side of the trailer.

So basically the single axle trailer has two tires, and the tandem axle trailer has four tires.

Pretty simple, right?

So which is the better option?

Usually the deciding factor between the single axle and tandem axle trailer will be about weight limits.  That said, there are a few other factors that need to be considered when making your decision on which type of trailer will work best for you and your family.

Let’s talk about the pros and cons of both the single axle and the tandem axle trailer.

Single Axle Trailer

First and foremost, a single axle trailer is the less expensive of the two options.  Not only is it cheaper on the initial cost of the trailer, but due to it being lighter than the tandem axle trailer, it is also cheaper on gas!

But asides from being easier on the wallet, those who champion for the single axle trailer also prefer it because it is easier to maneuver.  So if you are needing to squeeze into tight spaces, or take sharper corners, the single axle is your best bet.

And while the single axle trailer gets hit with a little more wear and tear with all the weight loading onto two tires, many argue that maintenance is cheaper overall since there are fewer tires and brakes to worry about.

At a glance…

 

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Less expensive
• Better fuel economy
• More maneuverable
• Lower maintenance costs because there are fewer tires and brakes

 

Cons:

• Less stability at high speeds
• Can’t carry as much weight
• More prone to sway
• More wear and tear because there is more weight on each tire
• Two brakes instead of four

 

Tandem Axle Trailer

Alternatively, a tandem axle trailer, also known as a double axle trailer, is mostly a fan favourite for 20 foot boats and over because of its capacity to haul some major weight!

With two extra tires for support and better weight distribution, the tandem axel trailer is able to handle more weight and maintains stability at higher speeds.

And while the tandem axle trailers will typically cost more money than their single axle adversaries, they are still a top choice for many because of the extra safety benefits.

Not only does it offer more stability, but it provides the driver with four breaks instead of two!

This can make a big difference when you are trying to come to a stop with a massive load behind your vehicle.

On top of that, a sudden flat tire can be a little less disastrous when you still have the support of the three remaining tires.

 

At a glance…

 

Pros:

• Less prone to sway
• Better stability at high speeds
• Can haul more
• Four brakes instead of two
• A flat tire is not as problematic as there are four tires

 

Cons:

• More expensive
• Heavier
• Costs more in fuel
• Less maneuverable

Ultimately, the choice is really depending on your personal needs in a trailer.  If you are hauling a lot of weight and plan to put some serious highway mileage on your trailer, you might want to consider picking up a tandem axle.  Whereas if you plan to use your trailer in confined spaces, carry lighter loads, or use your trailer for short distances, you can probably benefit from a single axle trailer.

Happy Boating