The RVers Corner
Home Maintenance Articles RV Salvage Free RV Manuals More +

Lowering the Axles - raising the trailer

This procedure is erroneously referred to as "flipping the axles".
The axles are not inverted or flipped over, but are re-positioned from over to under the springs. This will lift the trailer about 4 to 5 inches

The trailer is jacked up and placed on jack stands. This allows the axles to hang freely so that the work can proceed.

Proper equipment is an absolute must!

This is the original configuration of the axles. The springs are mounted below the axle tubes. The project is to raise the trailer by re-positioning the axles so that the springs are located over the axle tubes thus raising the trailer by 3 to 4 inches..
Wheels removed, ready to go!
Bolts removed, axle is ready to be dropped.
Axle is on the floor! The bushings will be replaced as they are well worn. Also, all the suspension bolts are worn and will be replaced at this time. A heavy duty suspension kit is recommended if most of the parts are worn. Be sure that the parts will fit your particular trailer.
The new bushing is being driven in, forcing the worn bushing out the left side.
The axle assembly is placed on sawhorses for easier access. These nuts are rusted beyond easy removal and the u-bolts will be cut using a cutting torch to save time.
The stripped axle with the mounting plate and spring removed. The axle is then flipped over to enable the new saddles to be installed. This new saddle is ready to be welded into place. An experienced and certified welder should be the only one to perform this operation, they know what they are doing!
This shows the spring installed on the new saddle, the plate installed over the spring and new u-bolts installed to hold everything in place. (Follow the manufacturers guidelines for torque specifications) Note the new bushing being inserted in the ends of the spring.
The axle re-installed on the trailer. The axle tube is now underneath the spring but it is in the same relative position as it was originally.
The end result ! This trailer has been lifted about 5 inches with this procedure and the suspension system has had a much needed overhaul.
A wheel alignment is recommended after this suspension modification.

RV Maintenance

RV maintenance is a subject that every RV owner can relate to! These articles will help you "do-it-yourself" with confidence and with a logical place to start! Each catagory has a list of articles relating to that area. Enjoy! Read now!

RV Tips

RV tips to make your experience more enjoyable! Read more ...

Used RV Parts

RV Salvage yards listed by State and Canada

Information presented on this site is for educational or entertainment purposes only. You are responsible for your own actions should you use any information found on this website.

Disclosure: Advertisements are placed on this website to offset the cost of maintenance and to keep this site free for everyone to use. Owners of this website will receive compensation for products and services purchased through featured advertisements. All claims of actual user results should be considered atypical.

Website © Les Doll All rights Reserved

Legal