New Axle Time?

[Evets]

It's a 67 Safari. The axle looks original to me. Judging from the picture, do you think I need a new axle? Keep in mind that the trailer, at this point is gutted, except for the interior skin and the bathroom plastic. This trailer is going to be converted to a food vendor(cringe, I know) and will likely be carrying more weight than originally intended. Thoughts?

[Aviator]

To me, it looks like it is covering more tire than it should. That is only an indication. I suggest you lift the trailer on jacks, and see if the wheels drop down at all, or stay fixed in place. That is a sure sign replacement is needed. Especially if you are going to boost the weight of the trailer.

[InsideOut]

Originally Posted by Evets

do you think I need a new axle?
<SNIP>
This trailer is going to be converted to a food vendor(cringe, I know) and will likely be carrying more weight than originally intended.

You definitely will need a new axle & may also need to beef up the frame depending on the weight of the equipment added. Not to mention being mindful of weight & balance front-to-back & side-to-side so you (& us!) remain safe on the road...especially with a single axle trailer. Not a redesign to be taken lightly...

Shari

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by Evets

It's a 67 Safari. The axle looks original to me. Judging from the picture, do you think I need a new axle? Keep in mind that the trailer, at this point is gutted, except for the interior skin and the bathroom plastic. This trailer is going to be converted to a food vendor(cringe, I know) and will likely be carrying more weight than originally intended. Thoughts?
Attachment 142287

Attachment 142288

The original axle was rated at 4000 pounds for your Airstream.

That can be kicked up tp 5000 pounds with a few changes to the frame.

Andy

[Evets]

Originally Posted by Inland RV Center, In

The original axle was rated at 4000 pounds for your Airstream.

That can be kicked up tp 5000 pounds with a few changes to the frame.

Andy

Thanks.

Andy- Will these changes to the frame be evident at the time of changing the axle or is there something I need to know ahead of time? Although I'm not at that point yet, I'm planning a full shell-off floor replacement. This would also be the time to address any frame issues. Hopefully within the next month.

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by Evets

Thanks.

Andy- Will these changes to the frame be evident at the time of changing the axle or is there something I need to know ahead of time? Although I'm not at that point yet, I'm planning a full shell-off floor replacement. This would also be the time to address any frame issues. Hopefully within the next month.

If you wanted to go to 5000 pounds, you would need to beef up the frame.

That can usually be done very easy, when the complete shell and floor have been removed.

Those changes would be hidden within the underbelly, when you reinstalled the floor and shell, and of course the underbelly.

Andy

[Lumatic]

That's what I like about the forums. For every opinion you get you can rest assured you will get a contradicting one. So ere goes, kinda. Beefing up the axle for extra weight aside, this position of the axle to me looks fine. It is likely that the rubber in the axle has long since lost it's resiliency. Ditto on jacking up the trailer until the wheel starts to raise. Should be at least 2+ inches

[marzboy]

There are lots of interesting posts on axle replacement, make sure you read alot before making your decision. I replaced my axles all by my self. PITA yes, impossible no. No matter what anyone says there will be some sort of issue. I just finnished up with a complete shell of resto, take your time and do it right! Good luck!

[Evets]

Thanks for your thoughts everyone. I've spoken to Colin and will be going with the Axis 5200# axle.

[Frank's Trailer Works]

You will still need to beef the frame. That trailer is meant to carry it's cabinets and your gear, but not a kitchen and associated equipment. You might be advised to contact the health department before you go much further and be sure everything you do meets their standards. It would be a shame to get way into this and find out you cannot get a vending license.

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by Evets

Thanks for your thoughts everyone. I've spoken to Colin and will be going with the Axis 5200# axle.

If you wish to go past 5000 pounds, you MUST beef up the frame.

Secondly, why don't you modify the trailer to use tandem axles, which is many times superior for your planned use for the trailer.

Then, if you get a flat, your not out of business.

There is far more to specing out an axle/axles, than just guess work.

Andy