Forum Discussion

mxdad777's avatar
mxdad777
Explorer
Apr 30, 2019

Trailer and truck ride height

I know I’m close to level, but I’d really like to get the 5er spot on level. I think the rear axle and tires would thank me and I’d feel better about it. I also think I might want to add some air bags to my truck to take out the squat. My problem is, the B&W companion hitch is at its lowest setting and the Reece pin box is at its highest. I have no other way to adjust that I’m aware of. So I’m thinking about putting spacers on my Dexter torsion axles to raise the trailer 2 or 3 inches. If I’m correct, this would allow me to lower the nose of the trailer to level and also allow me to add air bags to my truck if I decide to do that. Right now my trailer to truck bed rail clearance is about 5”, I’d feel a lot better if I could get 6” or even 7” of clearance. So let’s here it from you experienced experts and help this newbie out. Below is a pic of where I’m currently at. Oh and does anyone know what spacers I would need? I have tandem 5,000 lb axles, Dexter model #5957430. Or am I over reacting and everything looks fine as is.

These are the axles I have.
  • 4x4ord's avatar
    4x4ord
    Explorer III
    Apr 30, 2019
    To get a little more bed rail clearance, add air bags to your truck and level the trailer you are likely going to have to lift your trailer at least 5 inches which might make it look worse, cause issues with your stair height and introduce more stress on your frame rails when turning sharp. I'd be tempted to leave it alone.
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Apr 30, 2019
    I would not be concerned about the slight nose-high. It is the 5"s of bed rail clearance that is more of an issue. Then if you level the truck (air bags), you may end up with less clearance, unless you raise the hitch, making the nose-high worse.

    I see lift kits available for Dexter torsion axles. Looks to be a possible option, to gain a couple inches. I would give Dexter a call, give them your axle number, explain situation to their tech, and ask their opinion on these lift kits.

    Jerry
  • 94-D2's avatar
    94-D2
    Explorer
    Apr 30, 2019
    I think your ride height is fine the way it is. That being said, you do have a slight squat in the TV, and the trailer is the slightest bit high in front. So, it isn’t broke but, a lift in the axles and airbags would do the trick and normalize any irregularity. Just don’t sacrifice stability on the trailer with the spacers.

    My truck has factory air ride. So, loaded, the truck levels to preloaded height (with the natural rake) and I have an alternate ride height option if need be (no squat but level). Look for bags you can adjust yourself.

    Happy Campin’
  • byronlj's avatar
    byronlj
    Explorer
    Apr 30, 2019
    If you are fully loaded for camping and sitting like that, I would leave it alone.

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