Forum Discussion

Highway_4x4's avatar
Highway_4x4
Explorer
May 14, 2013

Dexter Axle upgrade 3500 to 5200

I have Dexter neverlube 3500 pound axles on my 6400 pound TT, D rated tires and 6 lug rims. I have had one bearing failure and now it is almost time to replace the cartridge bearings again. The bearings are about $80 each + press old out and new in. If I have it done that is about $400-$500. The bearings on the 3500 pound axles are kind a small. I am thinking of going to 5200 pound axles and wondering if anyone has done it. I know I would have to replace just about everything but it would be nice to just do the axles and bearings. I am a do it yourself guy and installed the Dexter E-Z flex myself. Any advice other than sell the TT and get a new one?
  • byways's avatar
    byways
    Explorer
    May 15, 2013
    I changed 4K Lippert axles (after blowing two bearings). I replaced with 6,000 pound Henderson (UT) axles and Maxxis E range tires. Overkill? Maybe, but I have no stress flying down the road! About $2500 plus tires.
  • 69_Avion's avatar
    69_Avion
    Explorer
    May 15, 2013
    Are your axles Rubber torsion or leaf spring? Either way I wouldn't hesitate changing the axles, but you need to consider the "ride" with the heavier axles. Rubber torsions start to ride real good after they are loaded to 50- or 60%. Leaf springs ride better when loaded toward the heavy side, but they also have an equalizer on the tandem axles.
  • spike99's avatar
    spike99
    Explorer
    May 15, 2013
    .

    Yes. Replacing "at max weight edge" 3500 lbs axles with higher rated axles is a great idea. Actually, it's a very smart idea. Remember to measure Hub Fact to Hub face and if needed, order axle 1" longer (giving 1/2" wider on each side). If wondering, my one trailer's factory axle tires would rub. I replaced axle with higher rated axle that was 1" longer and it worked great. No more rubbing (because the factory axle was too short).

    For hub face to hub face measuring, surf: - click here -

    Also remember that going up size axle haz stronger electric brakes as well. Having more brakes than needed is a great thing as well.

    Hope this helps.
  • Lynnmor's avatar
    Lynnmor
    Explorer
    May 15, 2013
    Highway 4x4 wrote:
    I have Dexter neverlube 3500 pound axles on my 6400 pound TT, D rated tires and 6 lug rims. I have had one bearing failure and now it is almost time to replace the cartridge bearings again. The bearings are about $80 each + press old out and new in. If I have it done that is about $400-$500. The bearings on the 3500 pound axles are kind a small. I am thinking of going to 5200 pound axles and wondering if anyone has done it. I know I would have to replace just about everything but it would be nice to just do the axles and bearings. I am a do it yourself guy and installed the Dexter E-Z flex myself. Any advice other than sell the TT and get a new one?


    Yes, I've done it. Take all the measurements and then give Dexter a call. They made custom axles for me for little more than the stocked items.

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