Need advice 1953 axle hub brakes what to do

[Streamer1492]

Looking for advice, just pickup a 1953 21 flying cloud and trying to decide on what to do with axle, hub, wheel. hub does not have lugs, but has threaded holes, probably common, but I've never seen. Inside hub has braking system I've never seen, no what I would call brake shoes are around the rim?? Wheels are 7.00 x 15 but are too wide, had to let air out of tire to remove?? Would like a couple more inches of clearance if possible. What do you experts think I should replace?? This AS will only be used about 1000-3000 miles per year on short weekend trips. Will try and add some photo's. Thanks Terry

[wkerfoot]

tlc,

I would replace the springs, axles and brakes with new. Finding parts to fit the 60 year old axles and brakes will be very difficult if not impossible. Leaf axles and springs are not expensive.

Bill

[Streamer1492]

Here are a couple more photo's. If I replace axle, what do you suggest??
Thanks Terry

[wkerfoot]

I purchased replacements for my 1954 Liner from Axis Axles in 2005, about $600 for two axles and four springs. You can probably get your axle from them also, but make sure your specify 12" brakes.

The other option, more expensive and work, is to install a new torsion axle. Probably $1,000.

Contact Uwe at Area 63 in Orange, CA.

Bill

[Streamer1492]

Bill, thanks, do you think these are original hubs/wheels. I thought they were all 6 bolt. With new leaf springs do you think I'll gain any clearance?? Terry

[wkerfoot]

Terry,

The original drums on my 1954 were also 5 bolt and a locator pin on the drum as well. I replaced with 6 bolt drums to be the same as my 1979 Safari.

You may gain body clearance, but the axle will be the limiting factor. If you go with new, you could purchase a straight axle for more body clearance or place the axle under the springs. My 1954 had a strange saddle on the axle which fit over the springs.

Bill

Originally Posted by tlcbuilder

Bill, thanks, do you think these are original hubs/wheels. I thought they were all 6 bolt. With new leaf springs do you think I'll gain any clearance?? Terry

[Colin H]

Originally Posted by tlcbuilder

Here are a couple more photo's. If I replace axle, what do you suggest??
Thanks Terry

Attachment 175170

Attachment 175171

Attachment 175172

Attachment 175173

Hi Terry,
The axle you have is a dinosaur, with numerous obsolete parts, not to mention the lug pattern. Sure, you can replace it with a new leaf spring axle, but unless you're planning a period correct museum piece, why bother. Airstream switched to Torsion axles in 1961 & never looked back. The torsion axle is much smoother riding than leaf spring axles, have far fewer parts, & give you much better ground clearance. We have upgraded numerous pre torsion axle Airstreams with modern torsion axles built to suit the trailer & the owners intended use. You will require some minor welding to be done in order to attach mounting plates to the sides of the frame & a pair of upper shock mounts. After the mounting plates are installed, the axle only requires four bolts to hold it in place. Check out the 59Overlander thread for an example of how we did it.
Thanks,
Colin

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by tlcbuilder

Bill, thanks, do you think these are original hubs/wheels. I thought they were all 6 bolt. With new leaf springs do you think I'll gain any clearance?? Terry

Terry.

Replacing the complete axle with a torsion axle is a piece of cake.

All that we need is three dimensions, that I explained to you on the phone.

The weight rating can be altered to fit your needs.

Andy