Axle Angles

[Thiss]

Hi,

Trying to decide between 23 and 32 degree axles. The 32 are intriguing for better ground clearance for some of the sketchy places I might choose to drag it into, but the 23 probably ride better and have better resale.

So on an Overlander what would be a rough estimate on the difference in final height?

Thanks!

Mike

[SpletKay06]

They say about 2 inches higher with the 32 And the ride should be the same with either.

[Action]

It would be interesting to find out how much your 45 year old trailer settled. And what the original axle angle might have been.

I would be inclined to go with the greater angle just for future drop. And it is only a feeling and not based on actual fact.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>Action

[Thiss]

Probably ordering tomorrow. The current axles have all of 5 degrees of drop at the moment. So with 32 I gain another 27 degrees, but I have no clue how that will measure out in inches. Could I see as much as 4-6 inches. I dunno.

So a higher trailer hitched to a stock height new Ram 3500 I wonder if they will be a good match of not?

I am inclined to go with the 32 just because of some serious rutted and washed out dirt roads that I use to use to get to great spots with my old Prowler that I know I can't get to with the Airstream as it currently sits.

[SpletKay06]

You'll be fine with 32's it well only raise it 2-3 inches tops. 32 degrees is the unloaded angle. What happens is the rubber hardens over time and the axles quit dropping. Basically there stuck at there loaded angle.

[Thiss]

Thanks folks. So 32 seems the way to go.

Now what about load rating. A pair of 2,800 pounders is right at my current GVWR. 3,500 would buy me a little room. I am leaving it stock and not changing a thing as far as Cabernets and Counters, layout, and my new plastic fridge is lighter than the original. I have hit the truck scales a few times while loaded and I am always right at about 5,200-5,400 when loaded for a trip with full water tank.

Do the heavier axles comprimise the ride quality? Should I just stick with the 2,800. I am not worried about having bigger brakes since my tow vehicle is well equipped to stop.