Baystate Jeepers

Haven't even picked up my trailer yet and I'm already looking at modifying it. Was planning on picking it up today but I'm on call / on standby for an unstable server that's prone to crash. So I'm stuck at home, waiting for my phone to ring, and planning my build on a non-existent trailer

It started life as a Mazda B2000 Sundowner. It comes with 6 x 5.5 wheels. I haven't taken actual measurements but if Google is correct, the width of the axle is 55.5" with springs that are 2.36" wide

I'd like to put a D35 from a YJ under there, so I can use stock Jeep wheels. Far as I can tell, the width of a YJ D35 is........ who-the-hell-knows, and the springs are 2.5"

Soooooo here's my questions. Anyone know the width of a YJ D35? Maybe I'm missing something (and if I am, this is where you come in ) but if the widths are similar, this looks like an easy swap...?...

This is a utility trailer and won't be carting more than 500 lbs, max. So the axle needs to stay put but it's not like it will be seeing any rugged terrain or excessive cargo weight

Lemme know what you think

A YJ Dana 35 is 60.5" wide.

TSC carries 3500 lb rated trailer axles in store for reasonable $... Check those out. They have a 58" one for $159 on their website... Might be a lot easier than an old Jeep axle...

JW

Tx Jon, I'll look into that. I'm looking at an old D35 so I can use my (many) stock Heep tires for rolling stock and spare

If I remember right most new mfg trailer axles 3500 lbs and under come with a 5 on 4.5 lug pattern, your stockers should bolt right up!

ArticRubi wrote:If I remember right most new mfg trailer axles 3500 lbs and under come with a 5 on 4.5 lug pattern, your stockers should bolt right up!

Yeah, I meant to mention the bolt pattern probably already matches stock Jeep. That was why I suggested it.

JW

FYI, I tried finding the 3500lb rated "narrow" (58") one for my trailer and no tractor supply carried it. some weird issue with the SKUs, they may not even make it. however, the 2000lb rated one should be fine for your trailer. that's what i put in my trailer and it's been fine so far.

Nice project Carl! Would love to see some pix of this project when you get it going. Where are you going to work on it?

Jon / Duncan - tx guys, appreciate the info. I'll weigh my options. I was thinking a D35 from a YJ can prolly be found for short money, but I'll look at options and see what makes the most sense

Mark! Good to hear from you. I'll be working in my driveway, as usual. I'm not in a hurry to get it done, just need it done before a trip to Rausch Creek in May. You should sign up with Baystate and join us For sure, I'll document it. It won't be interesting as (insert Jeep) on TONS but hey - it's still a build

The downside I see to the D35 is mechanical complexity (you have to have the axle shafts, diff / seals, pinion seals, etc...) and weight vs. a trailer axle which is really light to begin with and just has simple greasable spindles that could easily be adapted to electric brakes if desired. If the trailer is the back 1/2 of a 1/4 ton pickup you're already getting a lot more weight than a typical 4x8 trailer frame + deck.... Seems like you'd want to be trimming weight if you can (IMHO).

JW