I need to buy new axles

[azflycaster]

Thanks Andy -

Since this was only done for a few years, Airstream must have discovered that it was not an improvement to angle the axles. Should owners of these units correct the angle as part of an axle(s) replacement?

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by azflycaster

Thanks Andy -

Since this was only done for a few years, Airstream must have discovered that it was not an improvement to angle the axles. Should owners of these units correct the angle as part of an axle(s) replacement?

Absolutely.

Misalignment of axles, caused by an improper location, will cause the trailer to tow dog-legged, and excessive tire wear.

The easiest way to tell, is measure from the lowest forward edge of the axle mounting plate, to the center of the jack post, on each side of the trailer.

That dimension should be "exactly" the same.

I would suggest that a steel tape measure be used, along with 2 people to make an accurate measurement.

There are 2 fixes.

The first, and most expensive, would be to reshape the axle tubes.

The second, is to open up the 5/8 inch holes on one side, so the axle can be relocated dimensionally. It will also be necessary, in most cases, to enlarge the square cut out in the axle mounting plate, where the axle tube is located.

As a final measure, install one additional bolt at least 1/2 inch, thru the axle mounting bracket and thru the axle mounting plate, after the axle is relocated.

That will keep the axle in it's correct location, should the 5/8 inch bolts come loose.

Andy

[Mikethefixit]

OK hoot
I just wondered. I don't need new one's.I got new Henshens in august 08 .They were are perfect fit. I did the change out(at 70 yrs old) and at my age I glad I bought the Henshens. It was easy for me.No shipping for me FOB my truck LOL.

[easyride]

To revise this thread,what capacity axles should I buy for 77 Overlander ? Dave

[easyride]

Bump

[TomW]

Originally Posted by easyride

... what capacity axles should I buy for 77 Overlander ? Dave

My Overlander's original axles had the axle rating stamped on a plate on the axle itself. A stiff wire brush revealed it to be 2800 pounds per axle. Crawl under your Airstream, and take a look.

My non-Axis, non-Dexter vendor advised me that I could safely upgrade the weight rating.

I do not have a gray water tank. But should I add one later, my new 3000 lb/axle rating will safey allow me to have one.

Tom

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by easyride

To revise this thread,what capacity axles should I buy for 77 Overlander ? Dave

Sort of depends on what you want to do or carry, and what exact model you have.

Andy

[Jssec]

I buy Torflex here - people are very helpful.
Torflex - Trailer Parts On-Line Store | Nuera Transport

[Ganaraska]

Originally Posted by Inland RV Center, In

Absolutely.

Misalignment of axles, caused by an improper location, will cause the trailer to tow dog-legged, and excessive tire wear.

The easiest way to tell, is measure from the lowest forward edge of the axle mounting plate, to the center of the jack post, on each side of the trailer.

That dimension should be "exactly" the same.

I would suggest that a steel tape measure be used, along with 2 people to make an accurate measurement.

There are 2 fixes.

The first, and most expensive, would be to reshape the axle tubes.

The second, is to open up the 5/8 inch holes on one side, so the axle can be relocated dimensionally. It will also be necessary, in most cases, to enlarge the square cut out in the axle mounting plate, where the axle tube is located.

As a final measure, install one additional bolt at least 1/2 inch, thru the axle mounting bracket and thru the axle mounting plate, after the axle is relocated.

That will keep the axle in it's correct location, should the 5/8 inch bolts come loose.

Andy

When relocating holes like this sometimes you can add a washer under the bolt head and weld the washer to the frame.

I have seen this done when repairing a bent car frame and it is necessary to move the wheel slightly to get perfect alignment. You have to slot the mounting holes then add the washers so the part cannot move.

Get everything lined up perfectly, then tack weld the washers in place.