Axle AND tire heresy, all in one thread!

[DKB_SATX]

So, according to Google, the patent for the version of the axle that was on my '75 trailer was issued on April Fool's Day 1969. They applied for it in 1967, so I wonder if there's some significant difference from the dura-torque axles made in the early '60s.

[DKB_SATX]

Originally Posted by REDNAX

"Armored" as in split loom corrugated covering. If not present, have at it. Split side slightly downward to drain any water, however unlikely.

Is automotive stuff essentially the same as the stuff a nerd like me would use to organize computer or AV wiring, or is it tougher or more resistant to the elements?

[slowmover]

Originally Posted by DKB_SATX

Is automotive stuff essentially the same as the stuff a nerd like me would use to organize computer or AV wiring, or is it tougher or more resistant to the elements?

If NAPA carries it, you're good to go. I imagine there is a specialty supplier somewhere as UV plus grease/oil resistance is important. It isn't expensive, but not cheap either. The new Peterbilt I drive has every inch of element-exposed wiring fully enclosed in this manner. As do the older ones on the yard.

Someone like this company may be able to route your questions.

My ANCOR catalog is buried somewhere, but it is where I would start (as USCG ratings are always a good start). WEST MARINE carries ANCOR, but one pays for their overhead if buying in any quantity.

.

[DKB_SATX]

Originally Posted by DKB_SATX

So, according to Google, the patent for the version of the axle that was on my '75 trailer was issued on April Fool's Day 1969. They applied for it in 1967, so I wonder if there's some significant difference from the dura-torque axles made in the early '60s.

Do any of you with experience with both early-60s and 70s+ torsion axles know if there was a design change in the late '60s? I'm curious why the patent application for the one that covers my original axles was made in 1967. I can't imagine them having a unique design from the early '60s and not even applying for the patent until years later.

[HiHoAgRV]

Originally Posted by DKB_SATX

Do any of you with experience with both early-60s and 70s+ torsion axles know if there was a design change in the late '60s? I'm curious why the patent application for the one that covers my original axles was made in 1967. I can't imagine them having a unique design from the early '60s and not even applying for the patent until years later.

I have seen some information that indicates the internal rod (the one that fits inside the tube and is attached to the trailing arm) was changed about that time. It went from a square shape to kind of a groovy twisty shape. I also understand this design had issues with the rubber rods starting to roll up and bind.

From looking at the shape that was used in '77 (I cut apart an axle) it had the twisty shape and the rubber was all pinched up in the wedges. I got a photo around here somewhere...