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Old 01-21-2015, 07:08 PM   #1
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How to gain more clearance

Has anyone installed one of these Dexter Lift Kits on a late model Airstream? This one would give us about 3" more clearance. Seems like low cost way to gain more clearance which we could use when going to some out-of-the way dry boondocking places we would like to go try.

Here is the link to the Dexter kit.

Dexter Axle - Trailer Axles and Running Gear Components - #11 Torflex Lift Kit (K71-724-02)

What would be the downsides??

AL
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Old 01-21-2015, 08:05 PM   #2
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Yep. Been there, done that on our 22' sport. Love it. There's a post somewhere on here with photos. Only downside is a bigger 1st step into the trailer.
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Old 01-21-2015, 08:43 PM   #3
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I installed the lift kit on my 19' Bambi. I'll post picture tomorrow. The extra height along with the 16" tires/wheels allowed the installation of two-folding steps. The new steps are Tread Lite aluminum and are so much more substantial than the stock steps. Made by Kippers. Again, I can post pictures if interested.
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Old 01-23-2015, 03:12 PM   #4
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Pictures, please!
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Old 01-24-2015, 11:33 AM   #5
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Pictures!
Attached Files
File Type: pdf Before Lift Kit.pdf (4.13 MB, 912 views)
File Type: pdf After Lift Kit.pdf (4.86 MB, 1192 views)
File Type: pdf New Step.pdf (6.10 MB, 600 views)
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Old 01-24-2015, 11:37 AM   #6
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Originally Posted by Steamy1 View Post
I installed the lift kit on my 19' Bambi. I'll post picture tomorrow. The extra height along with the 16" tires/wheels allowed the installation of two-folding steps. The new steps are Tread Lite aluminum and are so much more substantial than the stock steps. Made by Kippers. Again, I can post pictures if interested.
Not Kippers; Lippert!
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Old 01-24-2015, 11:39 AM   #7
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Steamy, thank you. I have this fear of ripping the exposed plumbing out. Care to go into your install process. Difficulty level, issues, etc.
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Old 01-24-2015, 11:43 AM   #8
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I like remote places too, but, a higher trailer is a less stable trailer. It would increase air resistance, thus lowering gas mileage. How much difference it makes at highway speeds I can't say, but it must have some effect.

Calling all engineers—am I right?

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Old 01-24-2015, 11:44 AM   #9
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Regarding axle lift kits, has anyone installed a lift kit on a tandem axle trailer? I can envision a couple of problems.

With single or tandem axles: the higher centre of gravity would affect towing characteristics. Significant? Has the process been vetted by Airstream?

With tandem axles: the need to adjust the ball upwards three inches to maintain trailer at level may require new hardware and interfere with operation of tailgate etc.
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Old 01-24-2015, 11:58 AM   #10
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With tandem axles: the need to adjust the ball upwards three inches to maintain trailer at level may require new hardware and interfere with operation of tailgate etc.
That too.

A high quality extension for the hitch receiver to raise it will cost around $150. This will lengthen the hitch assembly and make the assembly less stable. It is better to be closer to the axle than further away.

If you are still within warranty, there may be a problem with that too.

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Old 01-24-2015, 12:03 PM   #11
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Spoil sports! Some folks can find the negative in everything.
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Old 01-24-2015, 12:07 PM   #12
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A few comments;
  • The install was fairly straight forward; just make sure to use proper jacking points. There is a previous thread with pictures but I think he may have used the stabilizer jacks to hold the body up, which should not be done. I jacked up one side at a time, removed the wheel, then supported the frame with jack stands; removed the two bolts connecting the axle to the frame, lowered the axel with the hydraulic jack, inserted the lift spacer, bolted it to the axel, jacked up the axel until it met the frame, and bolted the spacer to the frame. Not really too complicated, but it was work.
  • Have traveled to Moab, Yellowstone, Glacier NP, Maroon Bells, since the install, and no concerns about stability.
  • I believe there is sufficient mass below the center line of the trailer that it is just not a problem, including the weight of the propane tanks on the hitch.
  • the extra lift is useful when going to National Park campgrounds, removing wheels, particularly if you have 16" wheels.
  • this upgrade, in my opinion, ranks right up there in one of the better improvements we have done. One of the reasons I am reluctant to sell it.
hope this helps.
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Old 01-24-2015, 12:22 PM   #13
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Also, look at the lift that others have done to SOB box and fifth-wheel trailers. I just do not think 3" is a problem.
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Old 01-24-2015, 12:28 PM   #14
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I've crawled around under our trailer enough to know that another three inches of clearance would be wonderful. I'm hoping I can be convinced that it's a totally safe upgrade!!
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Old 01-24-2015, 12:29 PM   #15
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Originally Posted by AWCHIEF View Post
Spoil sports! Some folks can find the negative in everything.
Is that post a double negative?

Here's another potential problem—low bridges or other things like tree branches. Most of the newer trailers are about 9.5' high—this makes them 9.75'.

Give me time—I'll come up with something else.

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Old 01-24-2015, 12:37 PM   #16
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I have the question submitted to Airstream via the dealer if the installation of a lift kit on the 23FB will affect warranty. I would just as soon have the dealer do the install before we take delivery.
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Old 01-24-2015, 12:40 PM   #17
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Quote:
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I have the question submitted to Airstream via the dealer if the installation of a lift kit on the 23FB will affect warranty. I would just as soon have the dealer do the install before we take delivery.
Let us know AS's response Steamy1!!
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Old 01-24-2015, 12:41 PM   #18
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If it was a good idea it would be a factory option.

The TT is as low as possible for good reasons, resistance to lateral sway highest among them.
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Old 01-24-2015, 12:51 PM   #19
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Let's see, the tow vehicle threads always come to "Have you got a certified endorsed letter from your insurance company, the manufacturer, state police stating this modification or misuse of the product is authorized?" And "You're threatening the life of your family and all those around you." Might as well get that out of the way.

Personally I wouldn't install a lift kit because I don't need it. If I did need it I would be prepared for the extra cost of install, and probable reduction in stability under adverse conditions and extra fuel use.
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Old 01-24-2015, 01:08 PM   #20
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Originally Posted by dkottum View Post
Let's see, the tow vehicle threads always come to "Have you got a certified endorsed letter from your insurance company, the manufacturer, state police stating this modification or misuse of the product is authorized?" And "You're threatening the life of your family and all this around you." Might as well get that out of the way.

Personally I wouldn't install a lift kit because I don't need it. If I did need it I would be prepared for the extra cost of install, and probable reduction in stability under adverse conditions and extra fuel use.
This line of thought could be extended to virtually any alterations, additions or upgrades to the original equipment. Please keep in mind that the lift kit is made and offered by Dexter, the manufacture of the axle. By the way, Dexter said it is the #10 Torflex Lift Kit for the 23FB axle. For those that have an interest.

Disclaimer: although I am an owner of an Airstream, the opinions and comments posted on this website are my own and should not be considered as expert advice on any particular subject. Anyone contemplating similar modifications should do their own research and evaluation of the products and consult with experts as they deem appropriate to make their own decision.
Hope this satisfies the attorneys.
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