new axle options.

[B-Rock]

Hey, I am starting to shop for axles for my 73 1300 boler. I am looking at choices and can't decide on a stock setup or a leaf setup.

I have a welder and I am a machinist so I can fab up whatever I need. I am also pulling the frame off to add metal to the frame and beef / fix it up. I plan on getting a axle with brakes but going to hold off hooking them up till I change the tow vehicle to the Mazda 5.

So looking at things just on price alone what is cheaper, leaf or torsional? I am 4 hours away from Paul and can drive there. I also have a princess auto about 30 min away.

What is better to use?

What is going to last longer?

Thanks

[Thomas G.]

Two advantages of torsion axles are; more damping for less bounce and the center of the axle doesn't rise, which helps with packaging.

[Phil Underwood]

I would also go with the torsion axles

[Donna D.]

Better? Last longer? That's subjective. I replaced the axle on my Scamp with a Dexter torsion. I expect it will last 20 years or so. Good enough for me and nothing extra needed.

[Darwin Maring]

Even though you are a welder I recommend that should you install a torsion axle that you fabricate it to BOLT on. A bolt on can be replaced in a couple of hours and a welded one requires more work. I also recommend that you have brakes on the axle.

A good source for axles in the US is Northern Tools however I recommend Dexter if it is affordable.

[B-Rock]

Originally Posted by Darwin Maring

Even though you are a welder I recommend that should you install a torsion axle that you fabricate it to BOLT on. A bolt on can be replaced in a couple of hours and a welded one requires more work. I also recommend that you have brakes on the axle.

A good source for axles in the US is Northern Tools however I recommend Dexter if it is affordable.

I am in Canada. That was to plan, change from leading to trailing, and make it bolt on.

[Kinslayer]

I have no experience with torsion axles, however the design looks like it adds strain on the frame. If the frame was designed for this type of stress then fine but if it was a leaf sprung suspension previously I would suggest retaining that configuration. Leaf springs are easy and reliable, easy to lift/lower and distributes road bounces... that being said I would suspect they sway more than a torsion set up.


PS, Princess auto is my favorite store!

[Donna D.]

I'd suggest contacting Paul Neumeister: Fibreglass RV Parts, Repairs, and Service by Paul Neumeister he has just what you need. Notice he's in Ontario!

[B-Rock]

Originally Posted by Donna D.

I'd suggest contacting Paul Neumeister: Fibreglass RV Parts, Repairs, and Service by Paul Neumeister he has just what you need. Notice he's in Ontario!

I know, already called and have prices. Though I put that in first post.

[Donna D.]

I see that now, saying you're four hours from Paul didn't ring any bells. We have a lot of Pauls' on this forum....

[B-Rock]

Originally Posted by Donna D.

I see that now, saying you're four hours from Paul didn't ring any bells. We have a lot of Pauls' on this forum....

It's all good. Just looking at all my options. Try and get what is best.

[lespnd]

FYI - I had a "trailer specialist" order and install a new axle for my 72 boler. I am a cert tool and die maker and although it may seem easy a job, it can be difficult to get and fit the axle properly. After reviewing the crap install I decided to let Paul look after the new install and ordering for this coming spring. He has many years experience and has ordered many of these for people. I have not heard one bad thing. Wish I would have went to Paul in the first place. Note: You may find one cheaper somewhere else, but you may end up doing it over again like myself and costing you more in the long run. Be careful and hope my advise helps.