Single vs Tandem Axle?

[MikeH55343]

I've been shopping for an older 16' to 20' camper. Some are single axle and some models are tandem axles.

What is the advantages or disadvantages of axle designs?

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

[upnorth]

I am going to say that a tandem axle will tow better for one.

[woodsmanmn]

Higher maintainence with a tandem, two more tires to replace, keeping the axels in alignment.

[efgh]

A tandem axle will cut out most of the trailers sway while towing. I have owned quite a few trailers and only the first was a single axle.

[Powerstroke]

Pros- better handling, less tongue weight, greater stability on road and at camp. Tandems also back easier.

Cons would be more parts, more maintenance. However, everything is just double. Its not like everything is unique. 4 tires, 4 brakes, 4 bearings etc.

Honestly, I see no negatives in a tandem axle setup.

[Ryan_V]

Unless there is a problem, there should be no more maintainance with a tandem. I've had a 01 30' travel trailer since '04 and have not had a single issue

[Powerstroke]

BY more maintenance, I just meant double the parts to maintain. There is nothing about a tandem setup that is inherently more problematic.

[KatoMike]

You can blow a tire on a tandem and the trailer will still go down the road until you can get it fixed. Blow a tire on a single axle and you better stop and fix it there...

[Hafnutz]

Depends on the total gross weight of the trailer. Look at the sticker or vin plate on the lower left street side corner. Pay particular attention to the gross weight not the empty weight. Then take a look at the tires and see what capacity they have. It's often hard to find tires that will have enough weight capacity for a single axle trailer.

[Ufatz]

Towed a 30' Airstream for years. Tandem axles every time a better way to go. More stable on and off the road. Only added maintenance is tires and brakes but how often do you have to mess with those.

No doubt in my mind which way you should jump.

You'll have a lot of fun.