Best overland trailer suspensions for 2023
If you’re a fan of overland camping - where the paved roads end and outdoor adventure begins - you’re in luck. Trailer manufacturers of all sizes, from Australia to North America, now offer several options that range in price and design, with features contributing to the design of excellent overland trailers.
One of those features is the choice of a trailer suspension.
What are overland trailer suspensions?
Overland trailers are ideal for backcountry camping for at least 3 reasons:
- First, they are typically smaller in size and weight than a conventional travel trailer.
- Second, they ride on robust frames with stout body designs.
- Third, they roll on off-road tires connected to an off-road suspension - an excellent combination that provides better ground clearance and stability.
According to the above definition, overland trailer suspensions provide better, (more & greater), ground clearance and stability. The only North American trailer suspension that fits this definition is the Axle-Less trailer suspension.
Why would I need an overland suspension for my trailer?
Are you an off-roader? Do you enjoy camping off-grid? If so, it’s to your advantage to get an overland suspension for your trailer. Here are a few of the benefits using an overland suspension on your trailer.
- Remember, a conventional trailer suspension uses a solid axle. So, your ground clearance is the distance from the ground to the axle. When the suspension has no straight axle (like the Axle-Less suspension) the ground clearance measures from the ground to the frame. Needless to say, this is a huge advantage for going off-road with your overland camper.
- The other advantage is how the Axle-Less trailer suspension mimics an independent suspension. Each unit is mounted to the trailer frame independent of the other. In other words, the left side spindle moves independently of the right side spindle. Not only does this create a ride that’s super smooth and unbelievably quiet, the trailer remains incredibly stable. In other words, you'll maintain maximum control of your rig, even over rough, off-road terrain.
What makes the Axle-Less trailer suspension so great?
Here are some of the hidden benefits of the Ale-Less suspension:
- Control: The ride is so smooth and quiet that you’re going to forget you’re pulling a trailer!
- Safety: Independent-like action and maximum ground clearance prevents accidents along the trail.
- Reliability: Durability is built right into its unique design!
- Peace of mind: It’s hard to put a price on a confident state of mind!
- Easy retrofit: There’s no need to worry about getting an axle that fits your trailer!
Is the Axle-Less suspension a DIY installation?
Before we outline the simple steps to install an Axle-Less suspension, let’s examine the five main components that make up its unique design:
- Steel Hanger
- Control arm
- Jounce spring
- Rebound spring
- Outboard arm
There are basically 4 steps to follow for a successful installation of an Axle-Less suspension:
Step One
Bolt outboard arm to control arm.
Step Two
Make sure the frame is perfectly square.
Step Three
Install hangers to the frame.
Step Four
Reinforce frame
Both units - left side and right side - come preassembled. View this video to see how simple it is to install these five basic components in this easy-to-install Axle-Less suspension.
Why is the Axle-Less trailer suspension your best choice?
There’s not much out there that you can compare to the Axle-Less trailer suspension except for the trailing arm style suspension. Below is a list of pros and cons that we can use to compare these 2 suspensions.
Axle-Less Trailing arm style
Price: $784+ $1800+
Requires axle: No No
Improved ride quality: Yes X
Durability: Ö Ö
Off-road capable: Ö Ö
Maximum ground clearance: Ö X
Price is dictated by the size, weight, number of components, plus installation. The Axle-Less trailer suspension is simple and easy to install - in fact, you could do it yourself!
Ride quality is improved because Axle-Less uses Aeon® rubber spring technology that provides a smooth, quiet ride.
Durability means they can stand up to rough, off-road terrain.
Off-road capability means they mimic an independent suspension that allows both tires to move independently of each other.
Maximum ground clearance refers to the distance between the ground and the frame.
If you like what you see in the above comparison chart, then the Axle-Less trailer suspension is definitely your best choice!
The Axle-Less trailer suspension lets you tow anywhere you go. With no through axle to cause hang ups, you’ll experience exceptional ground clearance. And as an independent trailer suspension, you’ll maintain maximum control of your rig, even over rough off-road terrain.
If you’re just looking for a durable suspension for your custom rig, there’s no need to worry about correct axle fit. The Axle-Less suspension provides enough flexibility for any build.
Featuring two patented Aeon® rubber springs and a metal control arm, you’ll enjoy a smooth, quiet ride — whether on the highway or out on the trails.
Experience exceptional ground clearance, maintain maximum control of your rig, and enjoy a smooth, quiet ride — on or off-road.
For more information on Timbren’s Axle-Less suspension, be sure to visit Timbren.com
