Forum Discussion

CavemanCharlie's avatar
CavemanCharlie
Explorer III
Mar 28, 2015

Axle Flip

Hi, I own a travel trailer but, my older brother and his wife have a 5th wheel.

They own a 2002 KZ 24 foot with one slide.

Last year they bought a new one ton pickup for use around the farm and for pulling the 5th wheel. The pickup is to high and even with the hitch adjusted to the max the camper runs to high in the front when traveling down the road.

They also have a problem with tire wear on the camper.

They are considering having the axles flipped and the trailer axles aligned. The problem is the nearest place to have this done is about 75 miles away. They are wondering if it's worth doing on this old of a camper. The camper is in good shape with a good roof and only one small crack in the siding hear a window. They only use it about once a year, maybe twice.

I completely understand that prices will very a lot by region but, I was wondering if any of you have had this done and what the approximate price range for doing this is going to cost.

Thank you for any information you can give.
  • I have done two so far. not too bad to do you will need some axle clamps for got the name. OR do a search there is a complete bolt on kit available. You will need to disconnect the wiring and remove tire and wheel and maybe the spring from one mount.You must have the trailer supported, left the trailer connected on the truck for the 5th wheel.
  • Not a big job to do yourself, I have done two trailers. Biggest deal is to weld on the axle perches opposite the originals and everything lines back up.
  • Same as Canadian said. I did my own and it was very easy. Did the whole job in one day and welded the perches on and rebolted axles to springs. It was only about 5-6 hours start to finish. U-tube has good videos on how to.
  • I had this done by the dealer when we bought a new fifth wheel around 12 years ago. Somewhat dated info, but we paid $250.
  • Did this myself years ago with a fifth wheel we had back then. He's a farmer, he should be able to handle it himself without a problem. I'm sure he tackles tougher jobs repairing his farm machinery.
  • http://www.serenitysys.com/rv/technical/suspension/axle_flip/axle_flip.html

    I did mine, bout a 6 pack job. Impact,welder and a helping hand.
  • If you have shock absorbers on the 5er the brackets will have to be re-aligned and you may need a different length of shock too.

    The dexter kit has detailed instructions follow them carefully. Change the sleeves and bolts on the hangers. Be sure to hold the tooth end of the hanger bolt steady as you tighten the nut to avoid stripping the teeth. A level hard surface makes the job easier and safer.