single to tandem axle conversion?

[griver]

Hello-

We're researching our first Airstream trailer purchase and trying to be patient to hold out for the right one. We think that we'd like a 24-ft from the 60's or a 23-ft from the 70's and the couple of the Airstreams fitting that description that have come available in our area only have single axles. We're planning to travel to WY with the trailer often and with the crosswinds, semi traffic and gnarly mountain passes, we feel that the tandem axle is a must.

We're interested in a project trailer and from the little bit of research we've done, it seems like we should anticipate having to do an axle replacement anyway. Is it possible/ advisable to convert a single axle to tandem? Is this a DIY project or would we need to plan on taking it to a dealer? My husband has experience with (older) ranch equipment tinkering and repair, average carpentry skills, plus lots of experience with structural retrofit, but no car repair experience.

Thanks in advance for sharing your experience.