Axles on 1952 Airstream

[IdahoMatt]

Any thoughts on how the axles on my '52 Cruisette are doing? I should have them looked at regardless though. Here is a link to a picture Picasa Web Albums - Matt - 1952 Airstrea...
Thanks for the help!

[wkerfoot]

Originally Posted by IdahoMatt

Any thoughts on how the axles on my '52 Cruisette are doing? I should have them looked at regardless though. Here is a link to a picture Picasa Web Albums - Matt - 1952 Airstrea...
Thanks for the help!

Matt,

I purchased new axles, springs and hardware for my 1954 Liner. Not expensive about $500 for both axles, four springs and hardware. If not you need to examine the shackles and possibly rebuild. Also you will find that the current brakes will not fit in the old drums.

Bill

[byamcaravanner]

Originally Posted by IdahoMatt

Any thoughts on how the axles on my '52 Cruisette are doing?

Matt,

You have an axle with leaf springs and not one of the torsion axles the undoubtedly you've read about here on the forums. As long as the leaves are not broken and still have an upward arch they should be fine. You may need to replace the bushings in the shackles, but other than that, I bet they are OK... so just relax and worry about other things.

[clancy_boy]

I agree with the above posts about your axle, check the springs for cracks, check themounting hardware and mounts, and maybe change out the pads. I just wanted to add that the trailer is a really nice find.

[markdoane]

I replaced the axle on my '59 with a new Dexter axle, and added on leaf to the spring pack for more capacity.

It's not a hard project. Any trailer shop should be able to do it, but don't let them use the cheap (too short, too narrow) springs sold at the local Farm&Fleet. If you replace, use the same length and width springs. You can do it yourself if you have the tools and muscles.

While your at it, I would get rid of the hitch extension. It looks pretty shaky, and it will make your trailer more susceptible to sway. I'd also invest in a WD hitch.

[rmpray]

Yes, you should not loose much sleep over these axels. THe simplicity of it all! I know, the torsion suspension is smooth, but looking at the cost of replacement on my 73 I wish I had spring axels. You've got a great project there!

rob n terry

[Cruisette52]

Hi Matt,
Its great to see another Cruisette owner on the board. I own Ser. 8050, which is not quite as far along as yours. I've got the original axle. New leaf springs were fabricated in the mid-70's. They rode a bit low so we have extended rear shackles with grease fittings to bring it up to the desired ride height. Great looking trailer.
Regards,
Tim