How to identify axles ?

[SYC2Vette]

I did some searching and could not find the answer on this, but of course could have missed it. How do you identify the exact axle (complete assembly) you have? Dexter does not have a simple system where you can enter your year., make, and model to get that information, and I cannot see any marking.

Also I have seen many references in threads where folks discuss their axle rating vs trailer GVW as though they should be the same or axle should be equal to or greater than GVW. In reality wouldn't it be GVW less tongue weight?
So if I have a 5,000 lb GVW and 500 lb tongue weight then axle should be a minimum of 4500 lb rating.

[Fungus]

My 2017 has labels on the axles. Email the serial number to Dexter and they will respond with the complete specs.

Why are you asking?

[tbrowne]

Each axle should have a label that identifies it and gives all of the pertinent specs. See the attached image.

[Action]

Originally Posted by SYC2Vette

Dexter does not have a simple system where you can enter your year., make, and model to get that information,

That is because Dexter has no clue of the application of any axle they sell to Airstream. That is Airstream's preference.

Airstream orders an axle or group of axles based on a specification and sizing that they want. Dexter then builds what Airstream orders.

You can do the same thing and Dexter will build exactly what you order. The axles have a lot of variables. You make an error on the order and Dexter does not care. You own that axle.

I use a local trailer shop to make that order. Then the accuracy is on them

Action

[Boxite]

Originally Posted by SYC2Vette

…
Also I have seen many references in threads where folks discuss their axle rating vs trailer GVW as though they should be the same or axle should be equal to or greater than GVW. In reality wouldn't it be GVW less tongue weight?
So if I have a 5,000 lb GVW and 500 lb tongue weight then axle should be a minimum of 4500 lb rating.

No, that’s not common because of the standardization which occurs in the industry.

Dexter (and many other axle mfr’s) make axles to meet industry common standards… Typically they make axles rated at 3500, 5200, 7000, etc etc.

Chances are your FC has a 5200 lb axle…but as already mentioned…the safe way to determine is for you to get beneath your trailer and find the sticker attached to the axle.

[Action]

Originally Posted by Boxite

Dexter (and many other axle mfr’s) make axles to meet industry common standards… Typically they make axles rated at 3500, 5200, 7000, etc etc.

.

Unless they have changed, Dexter makes Torsion axles in a variety ratings
These are grouped into duty ratings
Then divided into capacity rating windows.
Within that window one can order a torsion axle in 100 pound increments.

As an example
The Light duty Torflex axle comes in 7 capacity groups.
The 4100 to 6000 pound capacity group means axles in that group can be had from 4100 pounds capacity to 6000 pound capacity in 100 pound increments. Dexter just changes the rubber torsion bars internal to the axle tube to achieve the different ratings
https://www.dexteraxle.com/Products/

Then there is different down angles, brake types and hub choices/

To make it more complex Airstream would custom an order with a heavier axle grouping that had 12" brakes with a capacity that was lower than the minimum rating for that grouping. They wanted the better stopping power of 12" drum brakes, just not with a high weight capacity as they were looking for a soft ride.

Again not sure if that is still done by Airstream. However, it was for many decades.

Action

[Boxite]

@Action I had based my previous comment on the actual axle specifications of various Airstream model brochures I have. There were no increments of 100 lbs used by Airstream (or offered to customers special-order, unless there’s a very recent change). They typically used 4,000, 5200, 6000, 7000, etc etc.

If a model had a GVWR of 5000 lbs (such as a 22’Bambi) then it had the next-up rated axle beneath it… a 5200.

At least thats what the brochures I had showed.

[Action]

That may be correct for Airstream. And certainly correct for non-torsion axles.

However, Dexter allows for tailoring axles. Many owners will modify an axle order placed with Dexter. And Dexter is good with that. The OP will not be ordering through Airstream rather Dexter. While Airstream will have records of how the trailer was built and which axle they use, Dexter will not. They will either build an exact copy of what they sold Airstream provided the owner has the tag data. (which is stated is not there)

Or build one based on data entered at the time of the order. In the world of torsion axles, the choices are far greater. (Which is why I personally use a shop to place the order)

Action

[GCinSC2]

From Dexter, but listen closely to video at the 1 min mark or so.

https://www.dexteraxle.com/Resources...-an-axle-label

[Im2bent]

I wanted to know what year my axles were made as that is one thing not on the label so I sent them my serial number through their website https://www.dexteraxle.com/Contact/ , they responded quickly with a detailed page showing all relevant info for the axle.

[SYC2Vette]

Originally Posted by Im2bent

I wanted to know what year my axles were made as that is one thing not on the label so I sent them my serial number through their website https://www.dexteraxle.com/Contact/ , they responded quickly with a detailed page showing all relevant info for the axle.

Great to know.

Found my label upside down and faded. 5,000 lb rating. Glad I got the photo for my records while it was still legible

Thanks to all who responded. I appreciate your help and comments.