Can You Increase The Axle Capacity On A 2018 Keystone Montana 5th Wheel Trailer

Published 12/10/2024

Question:

Looking to upgrade the suspension on my fifth wheel camper. Currently have 7k Dexter axles and would like to install complete 8k axles and 4k springs. Camper is a 2018 Montana I have tags off current axles Is this something you can help with

asked by: Gene B

Expert Reply:

Hi Gene,

Why are you wanting to increase the axle capacity? Increasing the axle capacity won't increase the capacity of the trailer because now the lower rated component is going to be the frame. Can you tell me more about the issues you're having and I can see what would help alleviate them?

expert reply by: Kevin C

Measuring an axle
(click to enlarge)

measuring a leaf spring
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measuring for wheel bolt pattern
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spindle diagram
(click to enlarge)

Gene J.

12/10/2024

I have a bent axle and upgrading to the 8k system is very common among owners of the keystone brand. The 7k axles installed on the unit are actually too light for the trailers.

Kevin C.

12/10/2024

@GeneJ Ok, I can help with a majority of this but unless your hub face and spring seat measurements are pretty generic you'll need to call in to our customer service department to just order the axles. I'm going to throw some pictures up above to help illustrate what I'm about to explain. Axles: You'll need to remove the wheels and with someone else measure from the face of one hub on the driver's side over to the passenger's side hub face (on the same axle) to get your hub face measurement. This is important because this affects where your wheels are going to sit and if done wrong could cause your wheels to rub. Next you'll need to measure from the center of one spring seat to the center of the other on the same axle. This is the center of the trailer's frame rails and would be where your leaf springs sit. When ordering the axle they should hopefully be able to tell you right then what spindle they'll use so you can see what bearings and seals would be compatible and then start picking out the hub. Leaf Springs: To measure the length you'll want to lift the trailer by the frame and let the axles hang to take the pressure off of the leaf springs. You can then measure from the center of one eyelet over to the center of the other eyelet. You'll definitely need new U-bolt kits as well to clamp the axles and suspension together. Let me know what measurements you get and I'd be happy to pick out the correct components.