3500 pound axles for a '68 31-footer?

[apexdc]

Would 3500# axles be correct for a 31' 1968 Airstream? That seems to be a number that I see a lot, in spite of the original 2800# rating.

Also, should I worry about replacing shocks, as well, if I have a new technology axle? I don't think they even put shocks on Airstreams any more, do they??

Thanks for the help.

[dznf0g]

Originally Posted by apexdc

Would 3500# axles be correct for a 31' 1968 Airstream? That seems to be a number that I see a lot, in spite of the original 2800# rating.

Also, should I worry about replacing shocks, as well, if I have a new technology axle? I don't think they even put shocks on Airstreams any more, do they??

Thanks for the help.

Yes, they still use shocks. I would put new ones on a new axle.

[apexdc]

Originally Posted by dznf0g

Yes, they still use shocks. I would put new ones on a new axle.

Will do, on the shocks.

Does the 3500# axle seem correct, as well?

Thanks,

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by apexdc

Will do, on the shocks.

Does the 3500# axle seem correct, as well?

Thanks,

That sort of depends on the payloads you plan on adding to the trailer.

Andy

[bilby05]

Originally Posted by apexdc

Will do, on the shocks.

Does the 3500# axle seem correct, as well?

Thanks,

Be sure that the installer either knows Airstreams or trusts that you do (or both) and agrees to do what you specify. Mine did not believe the trailer weight I told him it was, did not pay attention to the weight specs for the axles that I submitted, and did not allow for the correct angle. Although he did put shock brackets on it, since the old ones were there and he believed what he could see. After some discussion with me and a genuine Airstream dealer he agreed to re-order the axles (correct ones this time) and redo the job. All ended well, but I would never do it again without a precise understanding. (I thought I had one the first time)
cheers, bill b.

[apexdc]

Originally Posted by Inland RV Center, In

That sort of depends on the payloads you plan on adding to the trailer.

Andy

Nothing abnormal. It is all in original condition that I don't plan on changing. It will be in one location in the summers and a different one in the winter.

So, 2800#, 3200, 3500?? 2800 was original, right. Is there a downside to going to #3500?

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by apexdc

Nothing abnormal. It is all in original condition that I don't plan on changing. It will be in one location in the summers and a different one in the winter.

So, 2800#, 3200, 3500?? 2800 was original, right. Is there a downside to going to #3500?

Absolutely.

You cannot increase the original axle rating, just for the sake of it.

If you plan on ALWAYS having a heavy payload, then that's ok. If not, then don't.

A 10 to 15 percent increas is OK. But 3500 pounds is a 25 percent increase.

I would suggest you increase to no more than 3200 pounds, unless and again, you will always have a heavy payload, along with proper rated tires and wheels.

Lastly, to will have to absolutely make sure that you keep the increased axle rating running gear in proper balance.

Keep in mind, that the heavier the axle rating, the more sensitive the trailer is to vibration.

Andy

[HiHoAgRV]

I ordered new Dexters for my '77 Ambassador...if ya wanna read about it.

No regrets, 3500 lbs each, 12" brakes (overkill IMHO), wheels fit fine, didn't do the shocks and had no problems dragging it all over the USA

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f437...les-39688.html