Community Forums

made2care · 09-26-2010, 02:45 PM

Just purchased a new dexter axle(plus electric brakes) with new springs and the works. Since I don't have the original springs which measure 35in, I will mount the new hanger brackets to obviously receive the new springs, which measure only 25 in. Question? Will I need to weld a weight distribution channel to prevent the existing beam from bending, since the new springs are not as long, to distribute the weight, or will I be okay?? Just wondering.
FYI This axle is a beast, 6000 #. The trailer only weighs 3700 #.Figured this would be good since she will receive a full makeover!!

RedneckExpress · 09-27-2010, 12:47 AM

Personally, given the age of the trailer, you may want to add reinforcing, or do something that is done alot with classic cars which is boxing the frame in.

Good man · 09-27-2010, 02:45 AM

made2care,
I don't think you will ever regret taking the time and spending the reasonable money to support the frame. Conversely, if you create additional stress on the existing frame with a holding tank or battery bank, without this reinforcement, you may regret it.
Your new axleset and brakes can certainly support the additional weight of boxing the frame as RedeckExpress proposed.
You are a very thorough researcher... you will continue to do the right things.
Keep the faith,
Jim

made2care · 09-27-2010, 03:17 PM

This is what I thought!! I will very carefully take the journey home, then reinforce, as a part of the "makeover". Hopefully, she will not bend at a mere 50 mph!!

RedneckExpress · 09-27-2010, 05:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by made2care

This is what I thought!! I will very carefully take the journey home, then reinforce, as a part of the "makeover". Hopefully, she will not bend at a mere 50 mph!!

It can happen. A past neighbor at my local RV Park started out with an old classic Shasta TT, on her way to Alaska the A-frame tongue gave way and this happened before she even made it to Canada from Portland, Oregon!

Linerpro · 09-27-2010, 07:55 PM

Made2care - I recently brought my '47 Spartan Manor on a 10 mile tow. It all went well on new tires and repacked bearings. I had a following vehicle, so didn't get a temp plates or hook up the lights. It seems lights might be 6 volt, so you might have to address that issue prior to your tow. I wasn't too thrilled with the 63 year old hitch ball receiver - It was intact and strong, but the mechanism has been vastly improved over time. On my trailer it was a bolt on assembly and will be easy to upgrade. It's a tight 2 5/8 ball fit. Anxious to see pics of your move. what Dexter axle did you choose, straight or 4" drop?

made2care · 09-28-2010, 10:09 AM

Went with a drop axle. will place new bulldog hitch on her as well. wish I had the original springs!! Will have to take it real slow and maybe do some box work later. Good news is she has been under a roof, so no frame rust anywhere. Hope the new hangers hold.

sknight · 09-28-2010, 12:23 PM

Chances are it'll be fine for the ride home. Since you'll have the new axle mounted it'll be easy to brace her up. What I'd do is add two pieces of steel, equal thickness to the frame, in a "V" setup with the point in the middle of your new mount. Leave enough room so that you can put a plate inside the frame and weld that in to box it.

What you'll end up with is a boxed frame with bracing across the free span to fully support it.

Steve, the king of overkill!

made2care · 09-29-2010, 04:35 PM

Appreciate the input on this. I am thinking on placing a 3/8 steel plate along the outside of the beam receiving the hangers, say 6 ft long. This should give me piece of mind for the trip home. Will hire a welder on site to weld hangers and steel plate. The new bull dog hitch will be welded as well. Should be safe!!