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Old 07-12-2018, 09:32 PM   #1
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1968 26' Overlander
Austin , Texas
Join Date: Jul 2018
Posts: 25
New to me ‘68 Overlander recs

I just came into a 1968 overlander that used to be my grandfathers. It’s been in the desert of New Mexico it’s whole life and seems to be in good shape... I haven’t seen it in years though and I don’t think it’s gone for a ride in over 10. I’m planning on bringing it home to Texas this weekend and looking for recommendations on getting it highway safe for the 700 + mile trip. Obviously I’m going to put new tires on it, right now it has 7.00/15LT’s looking around it looks like people have replaced those with ST225/75R15 C’s ... does that sound right? I’m seeing a lot about just automatically replacing axles since they’re so old... and a little about repacking bearings?

Once I get it safe to drive home I’ve got a short window until I’d like to move in (a few weeks) so any recommendations on what would need to be replaced first would be great. Right now all I have is pics of the wheels/tires, propane tanks and tongue and the make/model. Once I get out there I can and will send more and probably make a dedicated thread for fixing it up.

Thanks in advance for any help! Any bit of advice goes a long way, I am a complete noob to fixing up trailers.
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Old 07-13-2018, 07:03 AM   #2
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1974 Argosy 26
Morrill , Nebraska
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Be prepared to rewire the Ubilical cord 7 way plug. Unless it has been changed from the original pin out. It won't match your TV.
Do you have a spare tire
Make sure you have the correct ball size.
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Old 07-13-2018, 07:48 AM   #3
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1972 31' Sovereign
Lexington , Minnesota
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Seriously consider repacking wheel bearings while you're changing out tires. We towed ours home from Mississippi to Minnesota (1100 miles) and she towed like a dream even with bad axles. Don't plan on fast speeds (above 60 mph) and you should be fine.

Kay
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Old 07-13-2018, 09:00 AM   #4
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1968 26' Overlander
Austin , Texas
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Thanks TG, I’ll look into that. Doesn’t sound too complicated but it’ll definitely be better to bring one besides trying to find one in small town New Mexico.
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Old 07-13-2018, 09:01 AM   #5
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1968 26' Overlander
Austin , Texas
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Minno, do you have any advice on where to pick up the right size bearings?? Are they just universal? I see many threads in replacing them and no links on where to buy. Normally there’s links if it’s a specialty item... so I’m assuming they’re universal?
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Old 07-13-2018, 01:34 PM   #6
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1969 31' Sovereign
1951 21' Flying Cloud
Alex , Oklahoma
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Wheels

I'm sure someone will have an answer for you. InLand RV has been in business many many years. When we refurbished our 69 they were the only place I could buy parts. I have called them and ask questions if I get stuck on repairing something. You may want to call and see if someone there has an answer for you 1-800-877-7311. We have a 1953 we are fixing to refurbish. So I will be buying more parts.

www.inlandrv.com email Inlandrv.csr@gmail.com

Carolyn in Oklahoma
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Old 07-13-2018, 02:18 PM   #7
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1969 27' Overlander
Boise , Idaho
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If you plan to tow it a lot, you'll want to replace the axles. If you're just going to tow it home the one time, then don't bother.

The advice you've gotten is good. You might have to replace/rewire the umbilical. WHich means you may want to have the parts, the wiring diagrams, and a few tools. In the alternative, you could bring some temporary lights, IF and only IF you think your tow vehicle brakes are up to the job of stopping the trailer on its own.

The hitch coupler probably wants a 2-1/8" ball. The breakaway device is probably completely rusted out (even in the desert) but that's an easy fix adn you should just buy one and take it with you ($10-$15). And make sure the safety chains are in adequate condition and have attachment hooks.
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Old 07-13-2018, 02:41 PM   #8
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1968 24' Tradewind
Oxford, , Mississippi
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My 68 has a 2 inch hitch.
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Old 07-14-2018, 09:02 AM   #9
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1972 31' Sovereign
Lexington , Minnesota
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Hubby says that different size axles have different size bearings. The only way he knows to determine is to look at them. Not much help for you unless someone else has a better idea. When we picked ours up, the seller had a mechanic friend repack them for us before we came. We replaced the axles before we actually started using and towing the trailer (4 years later).
Not much help, I know. I know HOW to do it from helping Chris, but not anything about sizes.

Kay
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Old 07-14-2018, 01:34 PM   #10
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2006 34' Classic S/O
Fort Worth , Texas
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Take one bearing to a NAPA parts store, they can get you the exact bearing using the number stamped on the side of the original bearing. Also ask for double lip seals used for electric brakes as they are not standard automotive seals.
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Old 07-14-2018, 07:40 PM   #11
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1974 Argosy 26
Morrill , Nebraska
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There are 2 bearings on each spindle as well as a double lipped grease seal.
I would spin the wheels/tires when off the ground.
Listen for any growling sounds. Grab the tire at the top, then pull on it, then push on it to see if there is vertical/horizontal play. A little is OK.
Pull the dust covers off the hub and check the grease. If it looks greasy with no emulsification from water. The bearings may get you home.
Stop after the first 10 miles or so to check the hubs and how warm or hot they are running. Also check the brake drums for excessive heat. Continue to make regular stops and checking.
If the back plates have 5 bolts holding them to the axle flange. They are 12" brakes.
If there are 4 bolts. They are 10" brakes.
The axles if original will probably have lug bolts instead of studs and lug nuts.
Not sure when A$ went to 2 5/16" ball from a 2" ball. My guess is the coach has a 2 5/16" coupler.
I will assume you have a functioning brake controller in your TV. If you tow without brakes. Be very careful. This coach weighs in excess of 2 tons. It will take a while to stop it without trailer brakes.
Good Luck!
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