Shock replacement time?

[sound-silver]

We've had the 04 25' CCD for about 2 years. It's probably had 45K of tow miles with us. Recently a tire got all chopped up like when they do when a shock is worn out (like on my cars when I was younger). I replaced the tire and then noticed that another tire is developing the same condition.
It can also maybe be brake lock or balancing, but the tires are all fairly new and should be balanced.
I'm pretty sure it's the shocks, but I want some input if some of you think this is what it is too.
I have learned on this forum that I would need the Airstream horizontal shocks made by Gabriel if that is indeed the problem.

[ROBERTSUNRUS]

Hi, if your trailer has drum brakes, balancing the tire/wheels is almost useless. The drums are not balanced so it will always be out. I, for one, installed Centramatics to cover for the drums even though my tires/wheels are also balanced. Check out the threads on balancing your running gear, or Centramatics. [there are other choices too] You may, or may not, need shocks, but it sounds more like a balance problem to me.

[Action]

I am not convinced your shocks are causing the tire wear issue. Howvere it is time to replace them. (6 years and 45000 miles.)

>>>>>>>>>>>Acton

[handn]

I have a 2004 Safari with about the same mileage.
Modern gas filled shock abosorbers should last longer than 45,000 miles. Any ideas about how to tell when they are wearing out?
Mine have no leaks or other signs of wear.
Uneven tire wear or cupping sounds like a balance or alignment issue.

[Mikethefixit]

Does sound like an alignment issue or balance. Pull the wheels and or crawl under the unit and look for lead weights on the rims if your not sure if they have been balanced. Check the shocks by taking off them off and testing how much resistance is there after you pull the rod all the way out and then trying to push the piston back in.If you dont see any oil around the shaft or on the shock body U should be good.

[Action]

Originally Posted by handn

I have a 2004 Safari with about the same mileage.
Modern gas filled shock abosorbers should last longer than 45,000 miles.

Gas shocks will not work in a horizontal postion. Only verticle like a car or truck.

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

[sound-silver]

I ordered some Dynabeads today. They seem like a great simple solution to balancing issues. If it all works out I'll probably switch to Centramatics when this set of tires wears out.
There's quite a lot to learn about taking proper care of an Airstream.
This forum is like a happy silver cloud of information and knowledge.
Thanks for the input!