1973 ambassador first time towing

[nbusch]

So, I have an awesome friend who just gave me his 1973 29' ambassador. Im not sure what type of maintenance has been done to the axles, breaks, and bearings. I live in Salt lake City Utah and the trailer is located in San Diego Ca. Im no stranger to pulling travel trailers, I am however a stranger to pulling a vintage airstream. My question is, what can I do when I go get the trailer to ensure that the axles/bearings are in good travel condition? I know airstream contratced with Henschen to create a unique axle and im not familiar with it.

[DKB_SATX]

How long has it been since this trailer was on the road?

In general, the wheel bearings should be repacked every year or so, if it hasn't been serviced recently that's a first order of business. While the drums are off for that is time to inspect/adjust the brakes. Any trailer shop should be able to do that part.

Odds are good that the axles are in need of replacement, but that doesn't mean it's not possible to tow to Salt Lake City on the existing axles. The ride will be rough in that case, you may have to replace a few rivets when you get it home. This article will give you a general idea how to determine whether the axle needs to be replaced.

Welcome to the forums, and good luck! There's a wealth of information on here (this very topic has been covered dozens of times, I'm sure.)

[nbusch]

DKB, Its been on a trip from New Mexico to San Diego within the last 10 months and has made a few 20 mile adventures within the last 2 months. Im taking a blind leap of faith since its a gift. The only thing I have to lose is gas money! Im going to do the breaks and bearings myself. Do most Auto Part stores have the seals in stock to your knowledge?

[DKB_SATX]

If an auto parts place doesn't, a trailer place will. It's a common bearing and seal for trailer drums.