'67 Caravel axle measurements

[knishiya]

Hi,

I was going to replace the axle on my 67 caravel.

From another member, who has a 65 caravel she used these measurements in ordering from dexter:

Dexter "Torflex Axle"
#10 torsion axle 3000lb. cambered (slightly curved)
74.5" Hub face to Hub face.
57.7/8" Outside bracket to Outside bracket.
Reverse orientation, side mount, low profile, brackets.
22.5 degrees down, trailing arm.
Electric brakes
Grease bearings (not EZ-lube or oil)
5 lugs on 4.5" centers.

My question is, would these measurements from a 65 work on a 67?

Also, quote from local trailer shop is $599 for complete axle assembly (brakes) plus labor ($75 hr. They think it may only be one or two hours labor) Any idea if these prices are good?

One other issue though, they are not willing to do the shock mount. Maybe they just dont want to get into it or ignorant to airstreams, its just a local trailer shop. Can i have them install the axle and leave the shocks off for a while until i get around to the welding?

Thanks,

Ken

[knishiya]

Forgot to ask,

what do you all think about 3000 vs 3200 vs 3500 lb?

I think she ordered 3000 after a conversation with Andy at Inland

ken

[Action]

Likely the axles will fit as AS made a major change in 1969 and the trailers got wider. I would assume between '65 and '67 they are the same width. With that said I wouldn't trust a stranger on the internet that say assume. That's just me. I would be making measurements on my trailer. In fact I would do it twice. Not that you are going to cut them and I have heard it said measure twice cut once.

Have you weighed the trailer in it's most heaviest state? This will determine what the axle capacity is needed. My recommendation would be to size the axle capacity to 110% to 115% of the max static unhitched weight. You will have a significant margin with that formula. And again I have never replaced any axles before.

>>>>>>>>>>>Action

[drunkensloth]

I have a 65 caravel and ordered the same axle and in the process of putting it in right now. It fits like a glove but I did double check the measurements. But more importantly for you, dexter welded vertical shock mounts on for me. I just requested it on my order form when I approved the dimensions.

[Lance M]

Originally Posted by knishiya

My question is, would these measurements from a 65 work on a 67?

Also, quote from local trailer shop is $599 for complete axle assembly (brakes) plus labor ($75 hr. They think it may only be one or two hours labor) Any idea if these prices are good?

One other issue though, they are not willing to do the shock mount. Maybe they just dont want to get into it or ignorant to airstreams, its just a local trailer shop. Can i have them install the axle and leave the shocks off for a while until i get around to the welding?

Thanks,

Ken

Hi Ken,

I recently installed an Axis axle on a '65 Caravel. I got the axle from Colin Hyde Trailer Restorations. The measurements you have are very close to what I used for the '65. Whomever orders the axle must make sure that the specs are correct. I usually measure three or four times.
It would be best to have the shocks installed with the new axle all at once. Getting shock mounts installed when the axle is manufactured is the best case. If adding them to an axle that came without shock mounts, it is better to do the welding before the axle is installed.
The axle weight rating is dependent on the finished trailer weight and intended cargo carrying capacity, within limits, of course. It all depends on what is required.
Good luck with your project!