Changing a tire -- thoughts on Trailer-Aid Plus

[tkowalyk]

Has anybody ever used a device similar to trailer aid for tandem axles?

You drive your good tire up on the ramp, which would allow you to remove the other tire.



I would be interested on your thoughts -- it weighs in at 8.5 lbs. There is a lighter version at 5 lbs.

[RickDavis]

You can change a tire with that however you can do the same thing with boards or ramps you use for leveling and not have to buy and carry an extra device.

Have done it many times.

[RLS]

That works good. I have one that came with the trailer. Never used it and it sits on a garage shelf. I, like many others, use the leveling blocks when needed to change a tire. Already have them, so no need for anything extra.

[Florida 55]

I've used Trailer Aid twice. The first time I took it to the tire shop where they used it to change out my 15" wheels for 16" wheels. I didn't trust them using jacks on the underside of the trailer. The tire tech loved it and wanted his boss to get one.

The second time I used it to change a flat. It is very quick and simple to use. I carry it the back of my truck "just in case" whenever I'm traveling with the Airstream. As others have pointed out you can easily accomplish the same result with your lego leveling blocks or boards. The Trailer Aid just makes the process a little simpler since you only have one "part" to mess with. Count me as a satisfied customer.

[tkowalyk]

Thanks for the responses. I carry two blocks of linkx levelers - so I should be ok if I need to change a tire.

[dkottum]

I used it (the model without the riser pad at the wheel pocket) last fall to install new 16" wheels/tires. Works great, the wheel pocket provides a little extra stability. So I carry it and no jack.

doug k

[Alumaholic]

I've used it many times since 1996, and I never leave home without it. Mine is just like to one in the picture.

[Alumitater]

I have used my Trailer Aid only once with our Airstream, and it paid for itself right then and there. It was our second trip out with the AS and having the Aid simplified the process and helped stabilize the trailer while changing the flat.

While it is true you could use leveling blocks, the Trailer Aid incorporates a wheel detent which acts much as a chock and arrests the movement of the wheel being lifted. Justify the investment by having a tool specifically designed for the task of safely changing a tire on a dual axel trailer.

We were first introduced to this product back when we pulled a horse trailer, and believe me when you are changing a flat with horses aboard you want all the stability you can get.

Just my two cents, but money well spent.

[Aage]

I made a set when I bought the trailer in 2009.

Luckily, I never had to use it, but there it is, ready to go. 2"X10" with dowels to keep the stack true.



And all together now:

[BAB]

I have one and hope I never have to use it. Buying it is probably a guarantee that I won't. Isn't that how it works?

[JBinKC]

I heard a rep from Dexter Axles say that changing a tire with a ramp could bend an axle since it puts excessive weight on one wheel. I've done it and I'll do it again in an emergency but using a jack is probably best when conditions permit.

[tkowalyk]

Originally Posted by JBinKC

I heard a rep from Dexter Axles say that changing a tire with a ramp could bend an axle since it puts excessive weight on one wheel. I've done it and I'll do it again in an emergency but using a jack is probably best when conditions permit.

What is the best way to use a jack?

[polarlyse]

There is a "Jack Point" just to the rear of the rear wheels. It's identified by a diamond shaped marker and indicates a point on the belly at a frame member. Some people do not like using this due to the possibility of the jack slipping and puncturing the belly pan. I've used it with no problem several times ( I also use a piece of plywood to help spread the pressure). Others prefer to jack from the frame near the axels. Choose your own method but try to make sure it's a good structural point. I've never heard of anyone causing axel damage by using the ramp method and would certainly use it while traveling but while at home I'd probably go with the jack just so I don't have to hook it up to lift it.

[TG Twinkie]

It is safer to use the blocks or ramps than it is using a jack to change a tire.
The trailer won't fall off of the other tire. If you know what I mean.

[2dabeach]

I would not leave home with my trailer without the Trailer Aid ramp. I've used it on the road to change a tire and recently used it when I converted all four tires from 15" Goodyear Marathons to 16" Michelin tires. It doesn't slip and it has the dip in it to keep the tire in place.

[Alice&Billis]

Have one and have used it, but the wider surface of a 2x6 or 2x8 would be more comforting. Glad I have one though.

[dkottum]

Originally Posted by JBinKC

I heard a rep from Dexter Axles say that changing a tire with a ramp could bend an axle since it puts excessive weight on one wheel. I've done it and I'll do it again in an emergency but using a jack is probably best when conditions permit.

Bend an axle using a ramp? Not likely, trailer weight was placed soundly on one wheel and tire when the other tire blew out. Wonder if that rep found a job he's more qualified for.

doug k

[Hodum]

Originally Posted by dkottum

Bend an axle using a ramp? Not likely, trailer weight was placed soundly on one wheel and tire when the other tire blew out. Wonder if that rep found a job he's more qualified for.

doug k

Amen.

[switz]

I have a 3 ton jack/ stand combo I put between the two tires on the frame. While both wheels are off the ground, I took off one and put the spare on it's place and then took second tire off to take two at a time to Costco to install the Michelins. I reversed the procedure and repeated for other side. Spare made a solo trip for the tire swap.

Found the jack/stand on line. The unit weighs around 20 pounds since it combines two functions.

Also have the tire ramp from initial post. Sometimes a choice may save the day.

[Larry C]

Just make sure you have the wheels on the opposite side chocked, front and rear....I'm speaking from experience on this one..
Larry

Originally Posted by TG Twinkie

It is safer to use the blocks or ramps than it is using a jack to change a tire.
The trailer won't fall off of the other tire. If you know what I mean.