Bizarre Axle/shock set up/help

[Del Gurney]

Hi:
Just dropped one of two axels and took to axel shop.
This is for a '65 26' Overlander.
At a glance they thought it odd to have axels rated at 2,800lb using 3"x3" sq. tube with 12" 6 lug wheels unless AS "derated" them.
Here are pics, some PO did a "custom" shock installation.
The Left side (I found out) was wrecked and the entire ext. shell road side was replaced. A lousy job fixing frame so now I have to rebuild it too.
Oh foooey
Before I commit to an order I could sure use a little help.
I intend to install proper AS shocks per AS recommendation.
Thanks so much
Del

[golopogos]

Yeah that is a bizarre shock setup. I used axis axles and had them put the proper brackets on. The shock is a Monroe part number #555003.

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by Del Gurney

Hi:
Just dropped one of two axels and took to axel shop.
This is for a '65 26' Overlander.
At a glance they thought it odd to have axels rated at 2,800lb using 3"x3" sq. tube with 12" 6 lug wheels unless AS "derated" them.
Here are pics, some PO did a "custom" shock installation.
The Left side (I found out) was wrecked and the entire ext. shell road side was replaced. A lousy job fixing frame so now I have to rebuild it too.
Oh foooey
Before I commit to an order I could sure use a little help.
I intend to install proper AS shocks per AS recommendation.
Thanks so much
Del

Airstream experimented with many things, and did so with this torsion axles, but to a very small degree.

Starting with the late 1968 models, the shocks were mounted almost horizontally, and still are today.

Adding shock studs to your frame is not difficult to do.

The best time to do that is when you change out the axles for new.

Torsion axles only last about 25 years.

Upgrading the rating and starting angle is easy to do, along with using self adjusting 12 inch brakes.

Andy