Community Forums

setterrunbob · 09-29-2007, 07:37 PM

info in reversing or rasing a 1988 25ft 5th wheel

setterrunbob · 09-29-2007, 07:37 PM

info in reversing or rasing a 1988 25ft 5th wheel

Jeff_in_The_Dalles · 09-29-2007, 11:49 PM

After thinking of other options, I relocated my axles from above the springs to below on my 5th wheel.

I bought a pile of weathered 4x12's that I cut into 2' lengths for super-stable blocking and removed the axles. New perches came from a local auto parts store. I lined them up with the existing perches and clamped them down, and had them welded by a professional.

Took part of a day to complete, and was well less than $100 including paying a welder.

The trailer handles fine at the new height, and I have plenty of breathing room above the bed.

I choose this method because I could easily reverse it (with the stock perches still in place) if I didn't like how it turned out or how it handed...

Anyhow, welcome to the forum.

RustyJC · 09-30-2007, 05:03 AM

First of all, welcome to iRV2.com.

We're glad to have you with us.

The process to which you refer is incorrectly known as "flipping the axles". This is incorrect since the orientation of the axles should not be changed because almost all axles have camber built into them. Rather, the axle is relocated from above to below the springs - this requires new spring perches to be installed on the top of the axle. Kits are available from axle manufacturers such as Dexter to accomplish this.

Rusty

setterrunbob · 09-30-2007, 11:56 AM

rhanks you all for your imput have a nice day Bob

Jeff_in_The_Dalles · 10-01-2007, 09:45 PM

I should mention that there are bolt on kits that locate on the existing spring perches. Though I'm sure they are plenty strong, they are more expensive, so I think it cost me about the same to have plain welded on perches put on.

Some folks prefer to cut the stock perches off and reweld them on the other side of the tube, but I liked having the stock ones to go by to make sure the new ones are located properly... plus I like the idea of being able to put it back.

Other options might be bigger tires (possibly with larger wheels) if you have clearance, or making a sub-frame to raise the chassis...