New axle, wheel size for '61 Bambi?

[Calstreaming]

I just bought a 1961 Bambi and I'd like to try and replace the axle myself. The axle is the original torsion bar, and I'm guessing the 13" wheels w/ 4 lugs are also original. Is Dexter the best source for a new axle? ( I live near San Francisco) Do I need to supply them with any info other than the fact that it's a '61 Bambi?
Will I need to drill new holes into the frame to mount the new axle?
They offer options of a 13", 14" or 15" wheel. I was thinking of going with 14" or 15" just for a little added ground clearance. Any suggestions on wheel size?
thanks

[Aerowood]

I believe the axles are welded on on the 61's, so you either weld on the new or weld on the axle mounting plates and then bolt on. I've seen it done both ways. Dexter is a supplier but you have to give them all of the specs. such as hub face to hub face dimension, mounting plate location and orientation , weight, hub pattern, with or without brakes, etc. If you are unable to do this then you might want to consider contracting it out to an axle shop.

Welcome to the forums.

[Action]

For any axle vendor you will need to give precise dimensions to order axles. Airstream trailers from the late to mid 1960s have axles that need to be ordered by dimension. The data for many parts is not standardized like automobiles. There isn't a book with part numbers.

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

[Calstreaming]

ok, thanks for the info.

[JCII100]

Originally Posted by Calstreaming

I just bought a 1961 Bambi and I'd like to try and replace the axle myself. The axle is the original torsion bar, and I'm guessing the 13" wheels w/ 4 lugs are also original. Is Dexter the best source for a new axle? ( I live near San Francisco) Do I need to supply them with any info other than the fact that it's a '61 Bambi?
Will I need to drill new holes into the frame to mount the new axle?
They offer options of a 13", 14" or 15" wheel. I was thinking of going with 14" or 15" just for a little added ground clearance. Any suggestions on wheel size?
thanks

Hello Calstreaming, Dealing with same issue. Local Airstream dealers worthless and referred to West Coast that doesn't respond.



Which axle did you decide on how did it work out?





Regards,


John

[wkerfoot]

John, Contact Colin Hyde at Colin Hyde Trailer Restorations in Peru, NY. Or A+P Vintage Trailer Works in TX.


Bill

Originally Posted by JCII100

Hello Calstreaming, Dealing with same issue. Local Airstream dealers worthless and referred to West Coast that doesn't respond.



Which axle did you decide on how did it work out?





Regards,


John