How to Align a Tandem Boat Trailer Axle

If your boat trailer axle is not aligned, the trailer may not tow straight behind your car or truck, and can tip. Follow these tips to align the tandem axles on your boat trailer.

Step 1: Take the Boat Off the Trailer

Remove your boat from the trailer to make this repair much easier.

Step 2: Check for a Locating Pin on Your Axle

At the center of each axle there should be a locating pin. These axles have receiving holes in a flat metal bar welded to the axle to keep the axles aligned. If your axle is not constructed this way, proceed to Step 3.

Step 3: Measure the Center Point of Your Tandem Axle

Measure across the axles diagonally from frame to frame so the axle springs cross in the middle of the frame. Maintain the same distance between the centers of each axle. The measurements must be exactly the same.

Step 4: Measure from the Hubs to the Center Point

Measure from the wheel hubs of the axle to the center point of the frame. Add 1/8 inch toe-in and camber for each hub so the wheels track together when the trailer turns a corner.