Hello everyone.
Well, this is the beginning.
After two years of owning a 1973 Airstream Tradewind, I started my major rebuilding.
Actually I gutted the interior last year and let sit the winter. This year over the three-day Memorial Day weekend I did the removal of the shell from the trailer, and strip the trailer down to the frame. It is an surprisingly great shape. There is some heavy rust on the outriggers and rear cross support and under the water tank frame support. I am going to have the frame sandblasted and then use the POR 15 rust prevention system on it. I just ordered that product today.
I have several questions and hopefully you good people can help me answer these.
1. I want to replace the axles. I've read a whole lot in the forums about this. I still have a couple of major questions. When replacing these axles how important is it to consider replacing the complete break systems? Why if it is recommended?
2. I know there are two different types of axles. What are the differences between Dexter & Henschen axles? Is one better than the other? I am assuming that 2600 pound axles are installed on this. The plate welded to the actual is too rusted to tell. I assume they are original as this trailer sat from 1991 until I purchased it two years ago. Should I be increasing rating of these axles slightly?
3. Are there different angle options for the axles? Should I be considering a slightly higher angle so the body rides a little higher off of the pavement?I (Need to add gray and black water tanks, hopefully in the frame. Draining this from the bottom through the underbelly skin, is a concern.)
4. I see Andy's name from Inland RV and most regard him as the predominant guru, but being cost conscience is it better for me to approach my local Airstream dealer in Minneapolis-St. Paul area to find axles? I'm trying to be fiscally responsible and want to make sure I spend money actually were needed. (Shipping Costs)
I'm sure that my questions will be continuous for the next couple of years. Please be patient with me. I may ask dumb questions. Or I may ask questions that I already know the answer and I'm just looking to have those answers validated.