Axle Specs

[Henry-HILO]

I have a1979 12 1/2' MC Sunline with a stock drop down axle. I would like to get a straight axle so it can be flipped, but what is the correct specifications for such axle. I suspect it would need to handle 2000 lbs. Thank you in advance for any advice and specifications. Henry

 

[ScottK-SUN]

The measurement specs you need should be taken from your axle.

- Hub face to hub face with the wheel off. (the hub face is where the studs stick out of the hub)
- Inside frame to inside frame where the axle mounts to the frame. (some may want outside frame to outside frame)
-Then there are the leaf spring measurements if you are replacing them.

You might consider bringing it to a trailer dealer and have them measure and order one for you. Then it's on them to get all the measurements right.

If there is a tag on the axle, it might have some axle specs. Perhaps someone know the weight rating of the axle for that camper.

 

[Henry-HILO]

Thankyou for this. I suspect I will take it to a trailer dealer and then it will be "on them."
There are several reputable one in Phoenix.
Henry

 

[ScottK-SUN]

And it doesn't have to be an RV dealer. I think most trailer shops are probably better equipt to handle axle work than an RV dealer. Especially on an older unit. But if you want to tackle it yourself, several of us have done it here. Post pics and we can help you navigate the project.

 

[Henry-HILO]

By trailer dealer I meant Non-RV so should have been clearer.
Thanks again.

 

[JohnGB]

Hi Henry,

If all you want to do is an axle flip, Dexter makes a under/over kit for underslung axles to move the spring pack from the bottom to the top. There is no need to have to buy a whole new straight axle. This link is to Etrailer.com which is one place that sells the kit. This is for a 2 3/8" diameter axle tube. If yours is smaller than that, then it will not work. But there are many good pics of the conversion so you can see what this is all about https://www.etrailer.com/Accessories-and-Parts/Dexter-Axle/K71-384-00.html

But, since you have a 1979 camper, a new axle, and being straight can add some benefits.

1. Yes, it will raise the camper

2. You can order it with new current day brake plates and drums if needed. Some of the older campers have obsolete brake systems and getting parts is hard to impossible in some cases. You can get it with new springs too if wanted.

There is a very different cost in parts between those two options. If you are hiring the labor out to do the work, changing a complete axle with new axle unit may be very close to doing the over/under kit.

Scott was correct on the measurements you need if you go that route.

Hope this helps

John

 

[Henry-HILO]

John: This is great as I am being told that it would be impossible.
Thank you very much.

 

[JohnGB]

John: This is great as I am being told that it would be impossible.
Thank you very much.

What were you told that was impossible? That you had to go to a straight axle to gain height? If so, they may not have known about the over/under kit. Many here on the forum have done the over/under kit. But again, need to measure the axle tube OD to see if it is 2 3/8" OD.

 

[Henry-HILO]

Thanks