Full Float Axle Assemblies - Trailer Build

[cf_collins]

I'm going to build a lightweight trailer, ~1000 lbs capacity, just enough to haul my front D60 from Utah to AZ. Needs to be lightweight so the minivan can tow it (the family won't fit in the MJ for the trip), and super cheap (less than $275 total). Trailer axles aren't all that cheap, but I can typically get readily available junkyard axles for $43.
So I can obviously just throw a D35 axle under it and call it good, but what if I were to get a full float 14-bolt or equivalent, remove the axle shafts, cut the tubes off of the center section, and replace the center section with another length of tube. In my head this would be light weight (relatively) and carry quite a load, and be cheap. Since I've never messed with full float axles myself, only read about them, here are my questions.

1. Can you run a full float axle with the shafts removed? From what I've read, that seems to be the point, to separate the load carrying capacity from the torsional forces on the axle shaft.
2. If yes to the first question, would there be any issues as far as just removing the center section and the brakes and running it as a beam axle under a trailer?

If this isn't in the right forum, please let me know where it should go.

Call your local U-Haul dealer check the rate for a local rent.
http://www.uhaul.com/guide/index.aspx?equipment=opentrailer-4x7

 

[Suddenator]

Why not just put tires on the D60, lock the steering and fab up a bolt on tow bar?

 

[tbburg]

Why not just put tires on the D60, lock the steering and fab up a bolt on tow bar?

That would be hilarious! 'Also a great idea. As for shocks, get them. It won't make a difference to the D-60, but anything expensive being towed would really appreciate it. This might be of some help:

http://www.go.jeep-xj.info/Trailers.htm

As always, thanks to Go-jeep for an excellent web site.

 

[tysonxj]

Why not just put tires on the D60, lock the steering and fab up a bolt on tow bar?

If you don't do this I would get a Talon Eclipse Laser 2wd rear end.
( because a trailer ought to have disk brakes! )

Actually a parking brake on a trailer is pretty handy.

 

[xjnuttier]

The cheapest way to get a trailer axle, that is great quality. MOBILE home axles. They are dime a dozen, most trailers have them still attached, right under the skirting. I have a custom tandem axle on twin 10k trailer axles. they are the right size, super heavy duty, and easily able to be had...