Shallow Departure Angle Mitigation - Lift kit?

[Salvagediver]

With apologies; I was thinking again...this time about the relatively shallow departure angle on our 30' International. I looked up threads regarding modifications to existing skid plates; i.e., adding casters, or rollers or receiver hitch skid plate mods, but that was primarily a discussion from AS Interstate owners.

While we have the additional channel just forward of the rear bumper, has anyone made any mods to give greater protection? Not sure point-loading the frame rails using casters is a good idea...better to avoid a clearance issue all together. I was also wondering if the installation of a lift kit would gain much in departure angle to be worth it unless you wanted the lift kit for more than just additional clearance on the stern.

In any case, I'm interested in any opinions to address this...or not.

Thanks

[StuartsDad]

I would start with the Dexter Axle Lift Kit. I installed on my 28'. Eliminated my having to drive on to boards backing in to my driveway and makes those dips when entering/exiting fuel stops, etc. a non-issue. Better clearance on both ends is a plus. Tons of posts relating to the lift and all positive.

[Salvagediver]

Originally Posted by StuartsDad

I would start with the Dexter Axle Lift Kit. I installed on my 28'. Eliminated my having to drive on to boards backing in to my driveway and makes those dips when entering/exiting fuel stops, etc. a non-issue. Better clearance on both ends is a plus. Tons of posts relating to the lift and all positive.

Thanks, I am thinking you are right; the additional clearance on both ends would be helpful.

[A W Warn]

Originally Posted by Salvagediver

With apologies; I was thinking again...this time about the relatively shallow departure angle on our 30' International. I looked up threads regarding modifications to existing skid plates; i.e., adding casters, or rollers or receiver hitch skid plate mods, but that was primarily a discussion from AS Interstate owners.

While we have the additional channel just forward of the rear bumper, has anyone made any mods to give greater protection? Not sure point-loading the frame rails using casters is a good idea...better to avoid a clearance issue all together. I was also wondering if the installation of a lift kit would gain much in departure angle to be worth it unless you wanted the lift kit for more than just additional clearance on the stern.

In any case, I'm interested in any opinions to address this...or not.

Thanks

The lift kit will help, but there is another no cost option, no modification required: Release the tension on the WD hitch. The rear of the tow vehicle sags under weight of the trailer tongue, which makes the rear of the trailer go up. Once out of the driveway, restore tension.

I have owned 5 Airstream trailers 30' and longer, in the past 25+ years. I've only had problems dragging a few times with the 30 footers.