Any Scamp Experts?

[danny m]

I'm looking at some used Scamp 13s and noticed on many of the photos that the suspension looks like it's sagging.

How expensive and how difficult is it to replace torsion bars?

Also, can overhead cabinets be added to older models with birch interiors?

[Donna D.]

Axles last 15-20 years. You would replace the entire axle (and get brakes!) not just the torsion bars (which are rubber). Cost $250-$700 depending on whether you have the axle shipped, you do the welding, etc.

Yes, cabinets can be added, either by Scamp, you can order from them, or build them yourself.

We have a powerful search engine here at FiberglassRV (upper right corner of window), I'd suggest clicking the "More Search Options" to search all forums (or select a particular form), place a four-character word in the "Search by Keywords" box and you're good to go. To search for multiple words place a plus sign ahead of the word. Click "Advance Usage Help" within the Search engine for more assistance.

[danny m]

Oh boy...welding! Well, I can do that.

Thanks for the help.

[Greg A]

I just found a local Horse trailer service right by our house that is highly recommended and very busy. They were more than happy to do the axle on the Scamp and we just got the estimate from Dexter and their welding and ordered the axle. Total installed with 7" brakes will be $550-595. Takes 4 to 6 weeks after you order the axle for them to receive it and they estimate one day in the shop.

I'm going to have them install a 2" Bulldog coupler while we're at it and they will inspect the frame for any cracking and reinforce.

We should be ready for Yellowstone.

[Pete Dumbleton]

The rubber torsion rods are dipped in liquid nitrogen to stiffen them for assembly at the factory. Once they warm up, that axle is done! Can't be repaired.

So far, cheapest source of Dexter axles seems to be Redneck Trailer Supply, so if there's one near you, you're in luck.

Lots of info on the Dexter axle site, downloadable in PDF. Also, lots of info on this site in archives about axle replacement. Also in Yahoo Scampers site.

[danny m]

Thanks for the leads on information. I'm not sure I'll need anything done anyway, I'm just looking right now, but it's nice to know what it will take if I find one with suspension trouble.

If I do find one that needs a new axle I might consider a whole new system with a leaf springs and be done with the problem forever. Of course I haven't even looked at the underside of one of these trailers so I don't know what's involved in changing things. I'm a fairly good welder so with a little advice I can probable make something work.

[Pete Dumbleton]

That's a typical response (had it myself), wanting to put it in a system one already understands.

The torsion system is more shock absorbent than leaf springs and usually last 15-20 years (and probably longer now that manfs are putting on higher rated axles (the rubber can be cut for a specific load before assembly). I don't know what the relative new axle costs are, but Dexter and Al-Ko both warrant their torsion axles for five years and Dexter warrants the leaf springs for only one.

They've been around for a long time -- Airstream trailers use the Henschen torsion axle.