How to Lift a 1971 Airstream Sovereign Trailer

Question:

Im currently in the process of renovating a 31foot 1971 Airstream Sovereign and am looking to add a lift kit to the vehicle. The vehicle has the original tandem axles and is rated for 7000 pounds total. Im having trouble identifying which Dexter axle is on the vehicle and cant find a serial number on the axle. I am looking to use these same axles if recommended after the lift as well. Since these are the original axles I am also interested in replacing the drum and hub and would love to get more information on your recommenced product and install process, particularly how to wire new systems. Any information you could provide would be greatly appreciated, thank you!

asked by: Willsully

Expert Reply:

The best way to identify a trailer axle is to look on the center for a tag or sticker with the serial number. If there is none present then there aren't really many other options save for the trailer manufacturer having a record of this.

In order to lift the trailer I recommend you measure the distance between the two mounting holes on both the axle and frame. The top axle mounting holes will need to be spaced 9" apart on center and the frame mounting holes will need to be spaced 9.5" apart on center. If so then you can use theTorflex Lift Kit part # K71-725-02 which will provide 3-1/8" of lift.

For a replacement hub/drum, the Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly part # 8-219-4UC3 should be what you need but you can verify by checking the part numbers on the bearings/seals you have now or by measuring the spindle (see article). For a replacement braking assemblies, I recommend the Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brake Kit part # 23-464-465 which will work for you so long as you have a 5-bolt brake mounting flange.

In regards to wiring the new braking assemblies you will essential need to ground one of the wires to the axle tube and then splice the others into one another and run them to the trailer connector. We have a help article on this as well which I have attached for you.

expert reply by: Conner L