How to know if new axles are required?

[68-Ovrlndr]

I recently purchased a 1968 26' Overlander. I would saw it is ~90% original, and mostly everything is in working order. However, I have read that a trailer of this age often needs its axles replaced. How do I evaluate my trailer to see if I too should replace my axles. I hauled it back ~700 miles from where I purchased it, and I did not notice any that caught my attention while driving it home.

[dwightdi]

Basically the arms that hold the wheels should point slightly downward. If the arms point up the axle rubber rods have taken a set and the axles need to be replaced. Jack the trailer up on one side. If the wheels do not come down three inches or so then the rubber rods in the axles has become hard and will not provide the proper suspension. The rods are not a serviceable item and therefore the axles need to be replaced. At one time one manufacturer would take back axles and rebuild them but that is not the case now.

[richinny]

Inland RV Center - The Nations Leading Expert in Airstream Innovations

that link will tell you how to check them.

[Action]

Go here - Inland RV Center - The Nations Leading Expert in Airstream Innovations

Click on the left under articles and look at the Dura Torque axles.

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

[68-Ovrlndr]

Thanks for the link to the article...it was perfect. So after checking my trailer, it appears as though my torsion arms have about a 0 angle with the frame, not as bad as it could be, but probably still needs to be replaced. For my 1968 26' Airstream Overlander International, what size axle should I get. Two axles actually, since this is a duel axle trailer. How much should I expect this to cost?

Thanks,
Dan

[Lumatic]

Horizontal arms may be OK to marginal. Follow the test above to see how far the wheels drop when the trailer is jacked up before the wheels lift off the ground 3 inches is great. A little less, approaching 2" is more maginal. The axle rating may be stamped on a plate on the axles. You can also take the registered weight divide by 2 and add 500# + or minus. The general recommendation nowadays to go with a somewhat heavier axle rating than original factory equipment.

[Mexray]

Dan...there are axle prices on that InlandRV site...you'll have to call them for the exact axles you'll need for your trailer - they have all that info!

Got two for our 78 Ambassador from them last year, and they fit right into place without any hassle...check em' out!

If you decide to get new axles, order them with the complete brake set-ups - it's nice to have all new stuff down there near the road, and it's not much of an additional expense if your order with the axles...good luck.

[Action]

Originally Posted by 68-Ovrlndr

How much should I expect this to cost?
Thanks,
Dan

Price will vary depending on many factors

DIY or have a shop install axles
Full axle replacement with loaded brake assemblies or a bare axle and use all of your old brake parts.
OEM (Henschen) or an aftermarket vendor
Shipping is a variable however that is dependant on your location.

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

[Action]

If it were me, I would spec out a set of axles that were about 10% bigger in load capacity and have a installed angle greater than OE.

>>>>>>>>>Action

[SteSpot]

Check with www.area63productions.com for the specs...you will not be sorry.. paula

[Lumatic]

Originally Posted by 68-Ovrlndr

How much should I expect this to cost?

A couple of years ago I got a pair of #10 Dexters with brakes and shock mount for about $750. Number #11 axles would have cost me another $150. You would probably need #11s for an Overlander. I have heard the prices have gone up considerably. If I remember right at that time Henshens (equivalent to Dexter #11 axles) would have cost me close to 2 grand. Those were DIY prices.

[Jim Foster]

The axles on our '83 27' Excella had a slight up angle. They were rated at 2,800 lbs. The trailer weighs in at 5670 empty. I replaced them with 32 degree 3,500 lb axles from Inland RV. The brakes had just been replaced by the previous owner, so I went with bare axles. They supplied new bolts and the shock mounts were already on the axles.

Less than a day's work using two 5 ton jack stands, a 2 ton floor jack and air tools. I took my time, even stopped for a nice lunch break. Getting axles with brakes and drums will cut the time in less than half. Most of the time was spent removing and replacing the brake and drum assembles.

[Safari 62]

Yesterday I bought a piece of property with...I think, a 1965 Land Yacht Safari. My husband and I would like to move it to our principle home and start restoration on it. It has been on the property a minimum 17 years. Tires are not pancaked and I would say 1/2 full of air. The plate information is as follows: 22T5 S0732
6201
I will show my husband these postings and see what can be done.