Axle Upgrade - Lippert wants approval

[mitch8628]

Our 29.5 BHDS came with 4400 lb axles which is a blend between Lippert's 5200 lbs (Tube) and it's 3500lb axles (Spindle, bearings, hubs, and brakes). It appears the rear 4400 lb axle on the rig might have a slightly bent spindle. So now I have ordered two new axle beams from Lippert (4400 lb).

I'd love to upgrade the axles to true 5200 lb axles, or even the 6000 lb axles. They will not do so without support/approval from the OEM. I called Jayco and talked to both Customer Service and Parts, both saying they cannot advise to parts that weren't originally offered.

So, now I am stuck ordering the undersized 4400 lb Lippert axles.

Any suggestions? Tips on ordering 5200 lb axles instead?

[Mopar_Earl]

Put whatever axles and springs under it as you wish unless you're under warranty and want to keep the warranty valid. I'd would avoid Lippert axles for Dexter.


Earl

[Mopar_Earl]

What makes you think the 4400 axles are undersized?


Earl

[mitch8628]

Originally Posted by Mopar_Earl

What makes you think the 4400 axles are undersized?


Earl

GVWR of trailer is 9995. Axle Capacity @ 2 axles is 8800lb. Yes, 1600 lbs tongue weight dry subtracts that but it is still trouble some. Plus I already have slightly bent spindle. Bought the trailer used last fall from private party.

I'll contact Dexter to see what they offer.

[Mopar_Earl]

Originally Posted by mitch8628

GVWR of trailer is 9995. Axle Capacity @ 2 axles is 8800lb. Yes, 1600 lbs tongue weight dry subtracts that but it is still trouble some. Plus I already have slightly bent spindle. Bought the trailer used last fall from private party.

I'll contact Dexter to see what they offer.

Did you scale it to see what weight is on your axles?

Dexter has the same axle sizes. You can use your Lippert axle tag data to get your perch to perch centers and your hub face to hub face. You will need to know your spring length as well. That should be the only 3 things you need to order axles.


Earl

[mitch8628]

Originally Posted by Mopar_Earl

Did you scale it to see what weight is on your axles?

Dexter has the same axle sizes. You can use your Lippert axle tag data to get your perch to perch centers and your hub face to hub face. You will need to know your spring length as well. That should be the only 3 things you need to order axles.


Earl

Haven't had the opportunity to scale it yet. Will in the next few days.

Yeah, I have that info 86 - 68.5 - 25 1/4. I've learned so much about axles the last week. Ha. Thanks for the advice Earl!

[ARoamer]

Originally Posted by mitch8628

It appears the rear 4400 lb axle on the rig might have a slightly bent spindle.
Any suggestions? Tips on ordering 5200 lb axles instead?

Possibly it came from the factory with a bent / bad axle and it was never noticed. It's more common than it should be, my brand new 5er had to have the rear axle replaced under warranty.

I would personally find a shop to align it first and then if you still have problems go for the heavier axles.

[F350guy]

Have you tried Etrailer? I don't think they will be too concerned with what you buy. I've found them to be helpful.

[GHen]

I agree also with checking how much to realign the current axels.

They could have been bent by a sharp turning event by the transport company bringing the rig to your dealer. My daughter had her rear axel replaced under warranty for similar issues.

Also agree to go with Dexter axel’s.

Going to heavier axels may NOT give you more carry capacity, others here could confirm. Springs, shackles and frame components may also need to be upgraded.

[goducks]

cancel the Lippert order. Liperts $$$$.
Order 5200# axles complete with hubs and 12" brakes. Order leaf springs for 5200# axles along with a Dexter wet bolt kit. Throw in a CRE3000 equalizer too.
Might as well do it right since you'll have it all tore down anyways.