help! bent torsion axle and dont know if should replace

[Modern South]

so Sylvie is in the shop getting brakes replaced. however, the shop is saying the torsion axle is bent and needs replacement as well. i see conflicting statements and information on other airstream threads stating there is supposed to be a bend and thats how they were designed.

there is a distinct bend in the middle for sure. in the middle of the axle it is almost touching the undercarriage (maybe 1/4 inch gap). on each end near the wheels it drops down with about 1 to 1 1/2 inch gap from axle to undercarriage. it looks uniform on both sides. below should be two attached pictures for reference.

Having a bit of trouble getting the pictures to attach. Would you mind going to my blog spot and seeing them there?
moderninthesouth.blogspot.com

Sure, i know its 44 years old and is probably worn out for sure. However, dont want to spend 1000k plus if not absolutely necessary at this time.

so my question is: are they bent? if so, how much, or should they be perfectly straight? thanks for any help provided...

[vswingfield]

There's already a thread about that, see: http://www.airforums.com/forums/f437...ge-102926.html

Oh, wait. That's where you asked the same question already.

[desertair27]

Its probably not bent but surely worn out and not doing your sweet little trailer any good.I bet an axle for your trailer won't cost that much and you can get it loaded with brakes already installed.
I Very strongly recommend a new axle!!!!
Just my opinion.
Mike

[n2916s]

Modern South,

There are a bunch of really knowledgeable people hereabouts who are always willing to help a guy (or gal) out but it is considered bad form to repost an identical question. A lot of your replies were courtesy of people who make a living maintaining these trailers. "Freebies" so to speak. We sure don't want to burn those folks out.

Mike

[Modern South]

Okay, so clearly I have frustrated quite a few of you. Please let me clarify...This post was actually by my husband. (I know we are a team, but just wanted to make it clear!) He went back to the guy this afternoon to tell him what we had learned on the forum and the guy was adamant that it was not road worthy because it was bent. He said we were completely crazy to put new brakes on the trailer. So, we were still confused. I fully trust you guys and I want to make that very clear. Some of you said that you couldn't see the picture previously and that is why we posted it again. I am guessing that we will pick her up and take her to the local trailer shop and have them put brakes and tires on her there. Thanks for your patience, I just really don't want to screw this up! Ultimately, if a new axle is in order, we are gonna have to park her for a bit. Purchasing the airstream and doing the interior has taken up a lot of the extra funds in the past months! Anyway, I am going to make my husband get his own account so I stay out of trouble!

[n2916s]

No harm, no foul. You guys are rookies and justifiably concerned.

You might want to read the article that it posted on the inland RV site about the axles and how to tell if they are shot.

The bend in normal and pretty much universal. Get thee to a shop that knows of what they speak...

Mike

[Shacksman]

2300-3500 lb #10 Torflex Axle
Here's a picture from an Alxe supplier. You can see there is a bend. The mistake you will make is putting new brakes on an old axle. There is likely nothing wrong with the old brakes if cleaned up. A new axle will include new brakes and bearings. You can still use the old axle just take it easy as the suspension will be limited. Get to a shop that knows what they are doing.

[tarnished]

The axles are supposed to have a bend. If they are the original axles they are shot. A new axle is reasonable and comes with new brakes, drums, bearings and everything. Takes less then a Sat for an amateur to change them out.
Paul

[vswingfield]

Fair enough about the double threads. Definitely make him get his own identity.

I doubt if anyone could see your photos, though. You put up a link to your Google Mail account. Of course, if you want to give us your username and password...

Actually, the advice about the axles being bad due to their age is pretty good. You can get loaded axles that have all new brakes and everything will be in good shape. Andy, who replied to your original thread, has a good article about axles on his website: Dura Torque Axle.

It also sounds like another trailer guy might be worth considering.

[n2916s]

If you do end up changing out the brakes, get the self-adjusting style. Saves a lot of tedious adjusting...

Mike

[Modern South]

Has anyone replaced their single axle recently? If so, do u have a rough estimate on the price?

[featherbedder]

Phone Andy at Inland Rv can give total price w/proper axle replacement or Colin Hyde at colinhydetrailerrestorations or can be found on axle forums He deals W axis axles has all specs as Andy also has all specs both have simple bolt ups better to change axles as that old are shot, newer axles have every thing no need to piece meal [less cost in long run]

[altnbndr]

Modern South,
I just sent you a private message.

[FreshAir]

Bend or not in the axle if your axle is the original one it will need to be replaced. Do not install new brakes because most likely the new axle will come with new brakes and backing plates. The new brakes that you install on the old axle will not fit the new axle setup. inlandrv.com has info on how to determine the condition of your old axle.



Neil

[TG Twinkie]

The axle on your trailer is supposed to have a bend in it. It's the way they are made so the trailer tows properly.
You need to find a new guy! He obviously does not have experience with torsion axles.