How to Raise the Height of a 5th Wheel Trailer

Updated 07/07/2024 | Published 06/26/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(857)

$75.94

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(857)

$82.90

Question:

I have a Forest River 5th wheel that is equipped with Drexel axles, and the trailer sits too low in the rear. I am wanting to find out if there are any suspension lift kits available for this axle set up? Your time will be appreciated. Thanks

asked by: Dennis D

Expert Reply:

Hey Dennis, thanks for reaching out!

We have a variety of options, with the most cost-effective being the Dexter Axle Over-Under lift kits:

- 2-3/8" Axle # K71-384-00
- 3" Axle # K71-385-00

These kits will move the axle from sitting above your leaf springs to below your leaf springs so if you already have the axle below the leaf springs we'll need to look into another solution.

One other thing to look at is the setup of your 5th wheel in general. You'll want to make sure it's as level as possible and that you have your 5th wheel hitch adjusted so the RV isn't towing nose-high.

expert reply by: Jon G

Dennis

7/4/2024

The springs are already under the axle. The trailer does sit high in the front. I am currrently useing Anderson hitch, and I have broken out the rear windows of my truck twice now. I have to be very careful and make sure that when I am backing up that the turn is not too tight, and the trailer remains in a level position and not tip. The block cupler is in the forward position which obviously sits the trailer to close to the cab, I have tried turning in around which gives me the clearance that I need, but then the pin block will hit the inside of the truck bed when backing. I have been looking into sliders, Pullright and Demco, but I am not sure that either would clear the tailgate. I feel if the trailer was level it would give me more clearance with the pin block. One more thing, the ball on the Anderson hitch is already at its lowest setting. I could move it up and gain a couple of inches of clearance, but that would only make the trailer higher in front. I am pretty much out of ideas to solve this problem,so if you or any of your people at etrailer have ideas I would appreciate. Thank for you and response

Jon G.

7/4/2024

@Dennis We have the Correct Track Kit # RR23QX but that will only raise your trailer another 2-1/4" higher. Aside from that, you'll have to cut off your current hangers and weld taller ones on in order to raise your height. If you end up wanting to go this route just let me know how tall your current hangers are and I can make a recommendation from our linked selection.

Helpful Links

dept-pg-trailer_suspension_parts-sf-hangers-co-tandem_axle-pc-double_eye_springs.aspx

Dennis

7/7/2024

@JonG Thanks for your help. I will check out the RR2QX kit. 2 and 1/2 inches would actually help. It wouldn't be level, but close. I also found a place in Spring Hill, Ks., not too far from me called Outrig RV services, and they do suspension work, so I will give them a call in the morning and see what they can do for me. Thanks again for all your help, Dennis Dean