Single vs Tandem Axle Trailer Towing Benefits and Drawbacks with Josh the RV Nerd

Compare Singles & Tandems at www.haylettautoandrv.com/
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Haylett Auto & RV of Coldwater Michigan | 800-256-5196
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[@lilmouseygirl79]

You just don't find many dealerships that want to know your wants and needs. I've been to a few of my local dealers and they just want to sell you anything. :( I mean Josh and the Haylett family won me over with just yt videos. Never have I seen or met anyone selling a used vehicle that point out what is wrong with it. Most dealers will hide it faster than you can blink!!

[@paulagardner3218]

Thanks, Josh. As a single woman considering getting a trailer, and having never towed anything before, this was really helpful.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

My pleasure!

[@tjztyger]

Something few people consider when towing: axle track width versus highway ruts. The two troughs of water formed on the highway when it rains perfectly illustrate these ruts, especially on roads frequented by heavy trucks. A wide single axle will want to constantly "climb" out of the ruts and will feel like a neverending battle to combat sway. The natural criss-cross geometry of the tandem/spread axle arrangement combats this sway, so that's another factor to consider. Its great that you're spotlighting so many factors for prospective buyers, Josh. Your Haylett RV videos are fast becoming the go-to source for RV research. Thanks a ton!

[@thetraveltrailerguy]

Thank you. we have a tandem axle trailer and have found when crossing tool bridges it costs more to go across them since they charge by the axle :(

[@spankroy]

Another reason to prefer a dual axle vs single, is tongue weight. A single axel tends to have more tongue weight compared to a similar weighted dual axle model.

[@kevinclark6289]

I have towed with both single axle and a double axle and I never had a problem with either one. Just the other day I was following a Jeep Wrangler pulling a Geo Pro on the interstate for several miles and that jeep was pulling it just fine I saw no wobble on the back end of that go pro at all. I think it should come down to truly what trailer fits you the best regardless of how many axles a trailer might have anyway I appreciate you Josh for your videos I enjoy watching them.

[@donaldbailey5576]

Hi again Josh. I really wish you had covered spread axle tandem trailer’s. The spread axle makes such a huge difference on towing down the road. It does widen you’re turning radius but I think it’s worth it for how straight and true it goes down the interstate.

[@dontfencemein-rving7439]

I really do appreciate your knowledge videos along with your demo videos. I already knew this about the tires because over the last two years you add these little nuggets of truth in your demo videos. Thanks for putting it into one video. You are awesome!

[@ronaldheller3638]

Another problem with single axle. Backing up. A single axle won't stay as "guided" more than a dual axle. Dual axle is more stable when towing and easier to back up, based on experience.

[@marilynjenkins4009]

correct

[@susanjspaulding]

*WOW* !! *Did NOT know the difference between single and tandem axles* !! *Makes sense it would affect the weight and cost to have a BIGGER axle* !! #HaylettRV

[@edb007th]

Good work, sir! Keep it up and stay safe!

[@ERBViewer]

Great explanation, I a up in Ontario Canada and was looking for a RV, and wondering about this exact issue/ difference. Thanks for the information.

[@danielgoetz7821]

I prefer tandem much more stable. 👍 Great video Josh.

[@mmunoz5142]

Thank you for the great info on axes! It’s much appreciated by us newbies who are still looking for THE ONE! 🙏🏼👍🏼💗

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Our pleasure!!

[@MrDagund]

Thks,this is the first vid I have seen with you info great job

[@ellythompson4055]

We will be visiting this dealership! Josh cuts to the chase and I respect that! I wanted to hear him say no 1/2 ton should be pulling a 5th wheel and why. Right there sold me. Once we get our ducks in a row, expect to see us. Thank you

[@Wendy-oj7cb]

Earlier this evening I suggested a video like this and then I find it! Thank you!!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

:)

[@nicholasscheetz229]

I was actually thinking about this. I would go with the tandem myself :)

[@microwavedsoda]

another good info video. Catching up on some of your older info videos. Very useful.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad you like them!

[@nancykeeneysmith604]

Thank you for this video. It confirmed our research from a trusted source- YOU

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Our pleasure! Looking forward to meeting you soon I hope! :)

[@sjohnson8166]

Thanks Josh! This was exactly what I was looking for.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@danielvillarreal6551]

Awsome information. Thanks

[@rbaileyjr1965]

Great informative video as usual. My mid size suv, BMW x5, can't use sway bars with the factory hitch per BMW due to the way it attaches to the frame. So it seems like a tandem axle Minnie winnie micro would be much more stable than something with a single axle of similar hitch and camper weight.

[@Manatarms25]

We started with a 17 foot single axle hybrid. Always had a difficult time backing it in to spots. I was nervous when we updated to a 274DBH. To my surprise it was much easier to back into to spots with tandem axles. Made the learning curve easier for me.

[@chuckwilds1020]

I don't think it was the number of axles that made it easier to back up, it was the length of the trailer. The longer the trailer the easier it is to back up. The shorter the trailer the quicker it jackknifes.

[@PennsylvaniaBigfootProject]

Great explanation, Josh!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

TY!

[@1longrange]

Thanks for info, good looking out.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Ty

[@jillcarlson2076]

Tandem! Always! At least for me. 🥰💕

[@higg2156]

One additional element (potentially) to be aware of with dual axle trailers is close quarters maneuvering and the tendency for tire dragging/binding this is usually exacerbated by extended spread axles or "wide track" axles. Not a deal breaker by any means, just the natural yin/yang of mechanical engineering.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You definitely do get more tire scrub when jack knifing, but in 10 years of doing it here across pavement we've never seen a single issue as a result. There's just not enough kinetic force in place to compromise the tire.

[@drooskeedoo3388]

I have a 23ft, 7ft wide, tandem axle that weighs 4200lbs. I pull it with a 20 year old Yukon XL. Definitely feel it behind me.

[@codeman99-dev]

Have you done a video on trailer brakes? As in disc vs drum. I mostly understand the differences, but I mean, I've rarely dealt with drum brakes in my lifetime.

[@chodson65]

I am looking at 2 trailers both 3200lbs. One with tandem axles and the other is single axle. Both are equivalent in price but the tandem axle is 3 years older. Different layouts, but either will work. I read tandem axles have 4 brakes rather than the single axle 2 brakes. My thinking is the older tandem axle trailer.

[@christopherwhyte2360]

Hey Josh, is it more about wheels or axels? For example, I know the Embers have their independent suspension without Axels. Should I expect their four wheel models to trailer smoother with less sway than their two wheel models, similar to a tandem axel trailer vs. single axel? Thanks for all of the great videos and advice.

[@bobbyb.6644]

As a E Pro (single axle) owner - I am paranoid about tire quality and care!! An anti sway bar comes in handy also 🤔

[@81almirs]

I have single axle trailer with stabilizer bar ,I’m planning to go on the road trip to west coast,You think I should be ok or should I go with dual axle for long trip ?

[@kellingtonlink956]

Backing up with a tandem trailer compared to a single axel is an absolute breeze. Smoother with less corrections.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

it’s true for sure

[@kalyente5]

I have been searching online for hours and finally ended up right here again with Uncle Josh. Should have started here. Is there any other small RV with tandem axle, no slide, with bunks and a full/queen bed separate? The only one I’ve found so far is that Micro Minnie 1800BH. I SO appreciate all your videos as a noob!! Thank you. ❤️

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

lol welcome back :) The tandem axle on that micro minnie is pretty uncommon and always left it with a bit of a unicorn status I'm not really aware of any others at this time

[@liontamer67]

Thank you. I have a single axle and you are right it does get jumpy. I got better trailer tires and Andersen stabilizer has helped. Hoping it will help if I blow a tire. Another thing too that you could make a video on is backing up a single axle is soooooo much different than tandem axle. So many other campers have explained this to me and why boat owners can back it up like a boss. I’m not a boat owner. I will ask for help for awkward tight spots.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Yeah single axles “kick” a lot faster when backing up

[@michaelsuda6749]

Would a single axle kick faster if it had the same distance from coupler to tire as a tandem?​@@JoshtheRVNerd

[@tonymartino7892]

I’ve been towing boats (single axle) my whole life and now we have a double axle 19 ft trailer (4115 lbs dry) tows beautifully. I don’t have a problem backing into spots, I just see the torque on the wheels when pivoting and it worries me. Can’t be good to put that stress on things. So far so good though. 👍😎

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

It definitely looks spooky when you see the wheels "bend" basically. But I've been doing this for nearly 15 years now watching 15,000lbs fifth wheels hard pivot on concrete without issue

[@tonymartino7892]

@@JoshtheRVNerd thank you. New to this trailer stuff and learning a bunch from you. All the best from So Cal 👍😎

[@nancyrobards3800]

I see the cable on the trailers. made me remember someone taking one back last year or when ever. Did it get recovered and subject put under the jail? It bad you have to go to the added cost and trouble. All this has to be added to the cost of the rvs from this point forward!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Yes and Yes. The offender hauled the trailer a few hours south and sold it to someone cash-under-the-table with some nonsense sob story about his mom was sick and needed the cash or something. The folks that bought it are just as guilty in my eyes as they tried to fly under the radar for a while. When they went to offload it is when VIN's started popping in police systems. Sadly... the type of people willing to purchase an RV under such circumstances are typically the ones that beat the life out of campers. After they came back to our possession we simply ran them through an auction block at a nasty loss. We weren't about to put something like that out with Lord-Knows-What kind of surprises waiting under the skin.

[@jayb.8460]

That tire gives up the ghost 😂 I never heard that before.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

lol glad to bring something new to your day :)

[@alumniduck]

I have towed both kinds of trailers. When you have a flat/blowout on a duel axel you might not even know it. Blow out a tire on a single axel and you have a white knuckle ride to the shoulder. Furthermore, with a single axel, you have to stop immediately no matter the traffic or safety. With a duel axel you have the option of limping along a short while to a safe place to deal with it.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

yep yep. Great insights ty

[@georgenelson1530]

Josh, I would love to see a walk through video of the single axle trailer used in this video.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I believe it's this one: bit.ly/3oOAAqu Which is slightly outdated now but I think that's the camper

[@snooks73]

Hope to see you in MI later this summer. Can you feature more small tandem axles, please?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Hi Allyson! We record everything that comes thru (most of which is tandem axle) so you should have plenty to watch :)

[@Simcore999]

👍

[@MrJatkins11]

I have a 2014 Forest River V-Cross Vibe 6504, it is 20ft long, 7 ft wide and it is single axle. Nice little trailer, but I think they completely messed up with where they put the axle. It is more towards the middle which if you've towed a few things then you know a single axle near the middle of any trailer is just asking for trouble. It wants to constantly sway when going down the road. I'm sure if they would have moved the axle back about 2 feet it would have done much better.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

There's really two generations of Vibe out there. I've heard stories like this about their earlier models & how it affects their towing. The newer ones seem to be more dialed in on their engineering

[@FalconTypo6]

Great point: blowing out 1/4 tires = everyone is safer (we refuse to go single-axle). But SO MANY camper companies refuse to tandem for 18-footers (even with a slide-out), which is really disappointing. Will go with safer on the road, but we have to snackrifice when it comes to roominess, slide-out, and vertical bed-length (where one person doesn't have to climb over the other to take a piss, for example).

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I think a lot of builders are targeting a 5k total weight rating on those smaller models which is hard to do with the extra weight you get from tandem axles But I do also feel there's a market there for one or two models

[@FalconTypo6]

@@JoshtheRVNerd Yes! Thanks for the reply. Totally get the struggle with the tandem vs. weight, but dualies give far more stability when off-roading/boondocking, and dealing with highway windy conditions (we camp in western wind-prone valleys, like the Snake River). Shorter length = more places to squeeze in tight spaces or USFS/stealth camp. Not an option to go back to single axle or longer camper. Have a 2010, 19' Keystone Hideout with tandem that is 4200 dry weight, and a tongue that holds 2 batteries/2 propane tanks (and 2 Honda gennies in an F-150). Terrific layout for 2-3 peeps, but want a Q-size Murphy bed instead of the "squish" on the "full"-sized fold-out front couch/rear lower bunk (both are short). A slide dinette is a dream, but would add 600 - 900 lbs. Sigh

[@wmschooley1234]

Josh: In 2020 or 2021, does Haylett intend to continune offering the Winnebago 1708FB Micro Minnie Ultralite that comes in at around 3,180 pounds or the Coachman Ulterlite 204RD. Both are tandem axel lightweight campers.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Our stocking lineup is always changing. We carry both brands so we can get either at any time.

[@Stanf954]

Any opinion on the Winnie Micro Minnie that come standard with the tandem axle? The low weight advantage with the tandem saftey is very attractive for our needs.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Well built series of RVs, though you'll likely find they run about the same budget as a rockwood mini lite which is also pretty much the gold standard of ultralites

[@joshhaas2410]

If the tongue weight stays in the 10-15% range is it ok to have a bike rack on the back of a single axle trailer using a proper hitch?? NOT the square bumper.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Yep Yep! Provided its within vehicle specs you're good to go!

[@marilynjenkins4009]

here it is in simplified terms single axle are lighter but not as steady... twin or tandem are more steady but much heavier simples

[@BBBILLY86]

I have a 2018 1500 Ram 4x4 with Hemi 3.21 gears 8 speed. Looking for a small trailer to do weekend get aways for a couple. Double axle. Queen size bed and no bunks. Barrel ceiling in shower if possible. I'm 6'-5". Alot of desires but coul could somebody suggest a model to look at thats close to this style? Thanks in advance.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

A few ideas for you -- let me know either as a reply here or on each individual video what looks interesting: → Jayco 212QB: bit.ly/3ihptEf → Cherokee 20RDSE: bit.ly/3Gf0db7 → Rockwood 2109S: bit.ly/3CpYtdw → Coachmen 192RBS: bit.ly/2XqDBU8 → Rockwood 2104S: bit.ly/2ZazrAO I can think of several more depending on how much larger you want to get!

[@Normambo]

Hi, because you sound honest about safety, i'd like your opinion on the maximum weight you would put behind a Toyota Highlander Hybrid 2021 that has a 3500 lbs capacity. I have some some slopes to climb at my cottage place so that's a consideration to. The grade of that segment of my road is a 30% grade over 300 feet; it's also a dirt road with some slippage to be expected. I was thinking about 2500 lbs max, what do you think. Second question, are there 2500 lbs trailer campers with tandem axles? Thanks for your time answering this request.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

3500lb is obviously the *maximum* weight, but I'm pretty sure you realize that lol Less will always be better, but I'd try to keep things 3k loaded weight or less to make sure you have some buffer Your 2500lb target "feels right," but tandem axles in that weight range I've only ever seen in things like popup campers (which are a good fit in terms of weight)

[@Normambo]

@@JoshtheRVNerd Thanks

[@1234ahhh1]

Do you still get a lot of sway with single axles after a WDH is hooked up? Or is it minimized?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Still some certainly. Nothing to throw off a properly sized trailer

[@jimquantic]

I agree with this Gentleman, if you have a blow out--and you might, unlike your truck, you have all your eggs in one basket. And I would go further than this man when he says it is "no fun"--you may well have a catastrophic crash, whereas you may not even know you lost a tire with a twin axle design. It is just better, IMO. Same for towing your boat--twin axle all the way. Second, as was mentioned, you can carry more weight safely.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thx for watching!

[@tumbleweed4185]

I am looking for that in between "unicorn" that you briefly mentioned. I plan to tow with a short wheelbase SUV and a light weight tandem is my target. Please suggest your best choice for a tandem axle, less than 22', 3,600-3,800 dry weight with a walk-a-round queen bed.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

The problem is that Unicorn effect. Walk around bed = requires the RV to be longer = makes the RV heavier = generally starts at 4,000lbs dry weight. Closest fit is the little Winnebagos like these: bit.ly/3ce1Jep

[@tumbleweed4185]

@@JoshtheRVNerd Thanks for the reply. Some of the Micro Minnie models are appealing. I also noticed Coachmen Freedom Express 192 RBS fit my wish list pretty well back in 2013-15 and then they increased the weight on the newer ones. I haven't figured out exactly what they changed. Maybe they started using cast iron frames and lead pipes for the plumbing. -:))

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

@@tumbleweed4185 Seems like there are always little additions here and there every year. Stuff adds up after a while.

[@celebrationsofsounddjs5953]

Josh, we're having trouble deciding on a single or double axle for a trailer for the two of us that we can also rent out. Is the reduced weight of a single matter that much for towing cap of rental TV? We like tandems for pulling. HELP!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

For rentals I would HIGHLY recommend a tandem axle. It's more likely inexperienced drivers will be towing a rental so that extra stability becomes a big deal not only for protecting your investment but also for safety reasons

[@celebrationsofsounddjs5953]

@@JoshtheRVNerd thanks Josh!

[@staceymathews2141]

Is there a special way to pack your gear on those axles?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Regardless of the RV you ideally want your cargo spread across the rig as much as possible.

[@yourstrulybryan8134]

Can we talk about spaced vs close tandem axle and their differences/tire wear ECT.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Though spread axles will experience more tire scrub if jack knife parking we've never seen any actual functional difference in tire wear despite 10years of scooting them around asphalt

[@yourstrulybryan8134]

@@JoshtheRVNerd what is the purpose of spread axles though?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

@@yourstrulybryan8134 Reduces sway & bouncing. They work pretty darn well actually

[@Valor_73737]

I have been towing trailers since the 1970s! Every time I see a single axle horse trailer the hair stands on the back of my neck! I will not tow any trailer with a single axle, with the exception of very small, light trailers! If you blow a tire on a single axle trailer of any weight at all it can become a very serious control problem, even to the point of losing control! Blowing a tire on a tandem axle seldom causes a control problem unless severely overloaded or center of gravity too far toward the rear! There is another advantage of a tandem axle! I have what is called a "Jiffy Jack" It is a ramp the non flat tire can be driven up on lifting the flat tire off the ground for changing! It isn't necessary to unload the trailer or attempt to get a jack under an axle.

[@jml7916]

Ron Fillmore single axle horse trailer should be illegal. Aluminium frame horse trailers are questionable, aluminium tends to crack and snap if over loaded/stressed. It has killed a few horses. Aluminium floors should be outlawed completely. The ammonia in horse urine eats the aluminium floors and they fail. I’ve seen 2 horses have to be put down because of aluminium floor failures. Steel frame, 2 axles and wood floors. Aluminium is ok for the rest of the trailer but never below a horses hooves.

[@Jacquee181]

On the tandem axles....there are some that are closer together and some father spread apart??? What is the difference on those??

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Wider Spread between the axles reduces sway/bounce in transit... and actually works *surprisingly* well. Professional RV Delivery drivers comment on those systems regularly. It's an inexpensive way to improve towing and handling. It does incur a slight bit more tire scrub if jack knifing into a parking space, but we've yet to see one case where

[@jml7916]

Another small disadvantage of wide axles is a larger wheel well that may reduce interior space slightly and if you plan to use X chocks (a great invention imho) you need to find ones that spread wide enough. I have a wide axle 27’ BH and would buy it again in a heartbeat. It tows so much better then all the past RV’s I’ve had.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

@@jml7916 Thankfully wide spread X-Chocks aren't a rare/hard find anymore. They did well in adapting their product

[@CommonSenseCriticism]

Hey man, would a WD hitch help with the "squirrelyness" of a single axle trailer?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

So yes.. but technically no. lol -- i'll explain Technically weight distribution's job is to level out the load. Sometimes that can organically help with swap a bit But that being said -- MOST weight distribution hitches are also now simultaneously anti-sway hitches as well. Sorry - I've over-explained. Short answer is "yeah it'll help for sure"

[@CommonSenseCriticism]

@@JoshtheRVNerd you're the best man. Keep doing what you're doing.

[@mikesarno7973]

Question, what kind of bear is best?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

My uncle would say "An Open Bear" with his drawl referring to his favorite barley pop

[@athenaspencer4684]

❤❤❤👋😁

[@greggowensby8785]

A tandem axle trailer is easier to back. They turn slower making it easier to steer. Also the longer you get the slower it will turn which makes it easier to back

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

That's a fact Jack

[@LoneWolf1985BK]

Sorry, but you can't say that because you go from a single to tandem axle you immediately increase a ton of weight carrying capacity, get a larger unit, and increase structure. In many instances, a manufacturer will throw a 5k lb single axle under the same size trailer vs a manufacturer throwing tandem 2500lb or 3k lb axles under the trailer for cost. Yes, you will gain the extra weight of an added axle, wheels, and tires on a dual axle setup, but it does not always mean the trailer gets all these extra "things" (carrying capacity / increased structure) with it.

[@isaacgentz3319]

Wiggle while going down the road, the end. So many little single axle trailers causing accidents. When you combine high speed, wind, small tow vehicles, light and narrow single axle trailers, and people inexperienced with towing behind the wheel, it is a recipe for disaster.

[@johnreid859]

I think if you have a good anti sway hitch you won’t have a problem.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Proper Truck/Trailer/Hitch relationships is always important for sure

[@DeanSaia-rp9gw]

Can u pull a camper with a missing axell

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

not recommended. The reason a trailer typically has two axles is because one isn’t enough to handle the weight of the entire trailer alone.

[@rictech1325]

Micro mini 1708 fb ? Hey josh

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Hi Ric! Great camper. We aren't currently carrying Winnebagos but that is a great little rig.

[@rictech1325]

Haylett RV Reviews, News, & More copy that josh... I bought in February .. just commenting on it a micro with dual axel .. that was 1 of many reasons I bought. Have a great day

[@abdullahal-shimri3091]

Only tandem axle for me. Better trailer brakes and increased stability.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I totally get it

[@tremjar1305]

wants and needs.... a million dollars to start.. oh, wrong place, ... in that case cheap and easy to finance....preferably with an engine since i only have a car, not a truck of any kind.