Upgrading Brakes and Suspension On 2022 Grand Design Imagine Travel Trailer 2910BH

Updated 04/03/2024 | Published 04/02/2024

Products Featured in This Question

5-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 6,000-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long

(2042)

$72.33

4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 5,000-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long

(2042)

$70.43

Lippert Electric Trailer Brakes - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 4.4K Lippert Axles

(8)

$398.80

MORryde Shock Absorbing Suspension Equalizers for Tandem Axle Trailers w/ 35" Wheelbase - 8K

(702)

$207.89

MORryde Suspension Upgrade Kit for Tandem Axle Trailers - 2-1/4" Long Shackle Straps

(1915)

$125.09

Question:

I have a 2022 Grand Design 2910BH. Axles are Lippert 4,400 lb., tandem axle, 35-inch wheelbase, 15-inch wheels. Leaf springs are 25-1/4 inch eye-to-eye unloaded, 1-3/4 wide. Center support pivot is 7-3/4 inch eye-to-eye horizontal and about 2-1/2 to 2-3/4 vertical dimension. Shackles are 2-1/4 inch hole to hole, 3-1/2 inch overall length, 7/32 inch thick. Exiting bushings are dry, I wish to convert to wet bushings. I am also interested in Dexter, MORryde, or Road Armor equalizers, and associated shackle and wet bushing kits, but having problems locating any that match my center pivot dimensions and axle ratings. I also wish to replace the leaf springs with slightly higher load rating probably the 5,000 Lb e34SR. Yes, I realize the axle rating and tires dictate my max load! Next is brakes. I have 10-inch drum type, manual adjust, electric, with four-bolt mounting flange 2.812 square mounting pattern. I wish to convert to Dexter forward self-adjusting electric drum brakes. Not yet sure of drum depth it appears to be 2-1/4 inch. Will my existing drums work with Dexter brakes, or must I also purchase drums? My primary concern is the Dexter information for the K23-478-479 brakes says: Does not work with Lippert 4,400-lb axles due to clearance issues with the brake mounting flange. What are my options for self-adjusting drum brakes if Dexter does not have a solution? Thank you. Kent

asked by: Kent H

Expert Reply:

So I just want to start with the brakes. Due to you having the 4,400LB Lippert axle you will need their Brake Kit # LC66WD for each axle. These brakes are forward self adjusting like the Dexter you were looking at.

For a cushioned equalizer I prefer the MORryde # MR27ZR. This will have slightly larger dimensions than your current equalizer but understand the shackles will take care of the width and the height does compress under load so it will be much closer to your vertical dimension. The Shackle Kit # MR46ZR will provide you with the wet bolt upgrade you are wanting. You will notice these shackles are much thicker and stronger than your current shackles so they will last a lot longer and not elongate at the mounting holes.

For the leaf springs you can step up to the 5,000LB # e44SR but be sure to replace all 4 springs at the same time. The # e34SR you found are rated for 6,000lbs and will make your trailer bounce a lot even with the cushioned suspension.