Forum Discussion

cs2kplus's avatar
cs2kplus
Explorer
Apr 04, 2017

Spring Over Axle Conversion

Greetings again.

I have posted about flipping axles. Which I have learned it is know as "spring axle conversion".

I have an old 89 trailer. Fleetwood Taurus. It is low and I have issues getting in and out of my driveway.

I asked an RV repair place what it would cost. One said $400 to remove axle (unclear if that one or 2 - 2 is what I have). Then the cost of replacement parts.

Another said $1000 for the job.

I am not sure what a good price range should be?

I think I agree that the actual change in height will be 4". That works for me.

I have some questions:


Its interesting how this axle (3") slings down. Will this be an issue - as opposed to a centered axle?


Here is a shot that I suspect the perch is not actually welded? Does not look like pics I've seen online.


Here is another view of the stackup

Any thoughts on all of this info?
Thanks,
Wayne
  • goducks10's avatar
    goducks10
    Explorer
    Apr 04, 2017
    Those are drop axles and really junky looking. You'd be big money ahead to just buy new springs, axles and brake assemblies. Not sure you could even re-use most of that. Those springs are so rusted and corroded that I bet they hardy work.
  • cs2kplus's avatar
    cs2kplus
    Explorer
    Apr 04, 2017
    Yes...I know its a sight to behold. But everything functions currently. I do believe that it is all surface rust. It is an 89. It was used as a fire department demo for fire safety and don't think it has actually seen many travel miles. I drove to and from NJ to Indiana with no issues.
  • WNYBob's avatar
    WNYBob
    Explorer
    Apr 04, 2017
    2X on replacing the entire axle! Search for a complete kit springs axle and breakes. E-trailer has them based on weight you need.

    Post old on Craigslist, and let someone else deal with them.
  • GordonThree's avatar
    GordonThree
    Explorer
    Apr 04, 2017
    New springs aren't very expensive, and springs do wear out with time, regardless of miles. If you're going to all the trouble to rip the suspension apart to flip the axle mount, throwing in at least new springs sounds like a good plan.
  • goducks10's avatar
    goducks10
    Explorer
    Apr 04, 2017
    Also with that drop axle and being over the springs, going with a straight axle and still over the springs would raise the TT 4"-5" or maybe more.
  • cs2kplus's avatar
    cs2kplus
    Explorer
    Apr 04, 2017
    @goducks: Is that considered a drop axle? Are you saying to get a whole new centered axle?
  • cs2kplus's avatar
    cs2kplus
    Explorer
    Apr 04, 2017
    Is there an option to raise the trailer with some sort of booster? Someone just asked me that question.
  • colliehauler's avatar
    colliehauler
    Explorer III
    Apr 04, 2017
    I would agree with others on replacing the whole axle assembly with a straight axle, should give you several inches of lift.
  • cs2kplus's avatar
    cs2kplus
    Explorer
    Apr 04, 2017
    redoing the whole axle would mean basically everything..correct? Drums, brakes, etc. basically you'd keep the tires....and by then you can get bigger ones?

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