Axle Lifting Aid

[dbj216]

I bet many of us have struggled with the awkward balance of a Dexter axle. Trying to get the thing under and up into position in a vintage Airstream is challenging with just one person. The tube, then swing arms, then drums create a center of gravity in outer space.

Today I think I figured out a simple lifting aid that will help me position these 180 pound axles in place. We need access to the bolts and nuts when up and before the jack is released.

I used a simple 3"x7" U bolt and a leftover 4x4 pine lumber. I drilled and then attached the U bolt to the pine, and then to the axle tube. The pine piece is a foot long and plenty stout to allow the jack point to balance between tube and axle.

Here are a couple of photos. It is pretty stable, but I won't be getting under the thing. I'll just jack it up between the axle mounting plates and up tight to the frame rail.

Just sharing an idea that you might find helpful.

David

[GCinSC2]

David,

Looks like a nice case of work smarter not harder. And a nice smooth flat floor big plus.

Gary