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snodomain · 08-16-2013, 11:03 PM

We are brand new Airstream owners, and our first project is to replace the axle on our 1966 Carvel. Unfortunately, the axle that is currently on the Airstream is not the original axle, so we have no measurements or any way to determine the proper information needed to purchase a new axle. (A previous owner installed a mobile home axle on the trailer.) Does anyone have the proper dimensions and specs for a 1966 Caravel? Any recommendations for suppliers would also be appreciated. We're in Tucson, AZ. I am looking forward to being an active member of this forum! Thank you in advance for any assistance or direction!

Eileen

TinShack · 08-16-2013, 11:55 PM

Andy at Inland RV can probably help you with that. He's the axlemeister. Inland RV Andy

RM66caravel · 08-17-2013, 01:13 AM

Got mine through Colin Hyde make sure they have the shock arm welded for you cost about 750. I am waiting for the fender wells to be made curb side took a hit from a spindle brake did some damage! New fender wells are costing 40 each so I am replacing both. Next is putting her back together.
Cliff

RM66caravel · 08-17-2013, 01:15 AM

Also both colin and Andy have the info for the 66 caravel.

Jewel65 · 08-19-2013, 09:29 AM

Yes, what RM said! I also put Colin Hyde's axle on. They are Axis brand axles. I didn't give Colin any measurements, just told him I had a 65 Caravel and he know's what you need. I think your 66 would be the same. Colin's axles will need some drilling as the holes don't line up with the original, but this is pretty minor in the scheme of things. We installed ours this weekend. Got it done in one weekend.

Silverflames · 08-19-2013, 10:09 AM

If you want extra clearance under the trailer they can set the arms at a lower angle.

putback · 08-19-2013, 07:45 PM

A 1966 Airstream originally had a "Torsion" axle. As far as I know a mobile home axle is leaf spring, and for temporary use only. They attach very differently to a trailer. Andy or Colin can ship you the proper axle from your serial #, or dexter can send you a "spec sheet" for a D I Y er to get the proper measurements. However first you need to find out if the mounting point for the proper torsion axle has been altered, or if the frame has been compromised to install the wrong axle. Whoever did that to a '66 caravel should be put in stocks in the public square.

RM66caravel · 08-20-2013, 02:21 PM

Your axle mounts should look like this if not then they were modified and then it could get interesting!

aceflys · 08-20-2013, 04:08 PM

I got my axle for my 66 Caravel from Frank @ Franks Trailer Works. His mark up is much lower then the other people selling the same axles.

Ace in PA

Frank's Trailer Works · 08-20-2013, 05:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jewel65

Yes, what RM said! I also put Colin Hyde's axle on. They are Axis brand axles. I didn't give Colin any measurements, just told him I had a 65 Caravel and he know's what you need. I think your 66 would be the same. Colin's axles will need some drilling as the holes don't line up with the original, but this is pretty minor in the scheme of things. We installed ours this weekend. Got it done in one weekend.

65 and 66 are not the same measurement. There is a 3/4" difference. I have seen a great deal of variance and feel measuring well worth the little effort it takes. Trying to force an axle into too narrow a space is a real pain in the jack stand.

Jewel65 · 08-21-2013, 12:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 62overlander

Trying to force an axle into too narrow a space is a real pain in the jack stand.

Frank,
I totally agree! It was laziness on my part, and I depended on Colin to know the measurements for me. I would suggest anybody to measure for themselves. In my case it worked out fine, but I guess things could have worked out differently. I should have measured. Mine did fit just fine though.