Can Trailer Axle with Bow in it be Flipped

Published 09/11/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(820)

$96.89

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(820)

$86.13

Question:

Im in the middle of a project to raise the height of an old model 1500 1969 Shasta trailer if I can do it safely. I have disestablished the trailer down to a flatbed. My question is about flipping the axle, which I can find no specific advice about. This axle I would like to flip, turn over as well as put below the springs. The axle is 58 inch from wheel to wheel. It has an upward angle right angle bend at each wheel 3.5inch measured from the center of the square tube that is 1.5inch square steel axle. I cannot detect a bow in the axle. I want to keep the brake adjustment and wiring in the correct places so I have unbolt in order to switch the wheels? If this is not a safe or affects the wear of the tires then I will only move the axle to the bottom of the leaf springs. I will weld a large washer so the axle will not slip on the springs for a normal flip. Is what I am proposing something that is feasible? Photo upload was unsuccessful

asked by: Daulton R

Expert Reply:

Due to the bow in the axle that you found you can't actually just flip the axle as it would basically destroy the alignment. So what you have to do is move the springs to the opposite side of the axle without rotating it. We actually have kits for this like with the part # K71-384-00 for if you have a 2-3/8 inch diameter axle or the part # K71-385-00 for a 3 inch diameter axle.

You can also use a method like you described to create a spring seat on the opposite side of the axle.

expert reply by: Jameson C