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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
    cs2kplus wrote:
    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?


    Yes. You can buy a complete assembly from different axle suppliers. A dealer will gouge you pretty good. It may be worth your while to do an internet search for RV axles.
    Another thing to consider is if you tires are older than 5 years then you should replace them anyway. I hope they don't look as bad as the axle. Ha.
    Assuming you would need a 3500# axle and springs, here's a place to shop.

    https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Axles/Dexter/35545E-ST-EZ-89.html

    https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Suspension/Universal-Group/SP-212275.html

    You would need some new U bolts and bolts for the springs as well as maybe a set of leaf spring shackles.
  • cs2kplus's avatar
    cs2kplus
    Explorer
    Apr 04, 2017
    @GoDucks: Thanks for the great advice and info.

    I got a quote from a trailer (not dealer) for 1900 for everything including tires. Yeah it's high. But I think its pretty good for everything. This would be an upgrade as well to a straight axle with 6 lug (currently 5) wheels. It's an old camper..but we love it. To axles are like the engine of a trailer and I feel I can justify the cost.

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