17FQ Tire and Wheel Replacement

[K4RGD]

Have not pulled it except a test run since the blowout, but the new tires seem to be okay. No rubbing, so no lift. I am a but concerned that Class C 14” won’t handle the load Class D 13”s would, but we’ll see. The other concern is that if we have another blowout, there’s less wheel well for the debris, so the chance for body damage goes up.

But, that’s trailer hauling.

[BC.campr]

Actually 3xplor3r I believe an axle flip like Ky-N has completed gives more clearance between the spring and frame? Just wasn’t sure if the springs I have are finished...was looking at a set of 4000 lb springs as replacements (they are cheap enough) that have an inch more of arc than the originals. I believe the original is 1750lbs per side, so 3500 lb set?
Maybe I’m just out to lunch on this approach...lol.
Talking to a local spring shop about it. I didn’t need all the clearance of flipping the axle anyway, or the extra step up into the trailer after flipping.

I like the idea of the shocks that Ky-N added, from what I read they are a real upgrade on a single axle...

[3xplor3r]

The contact is being made between the frame and the U-Bolts. Whether the axle is on top of or below the springs the springs remain at a constant distance from the frame. So they'd still hit. I need to increase the distance from the springs to the frame, hence shackles. But stiffer springs are a good idea to, perhaps both.

[Homersimpson]

Dealer replaced my springs under warranty when new trailer leaned when empty. My current frame clearance is only 2", but no frame contact since.

Your photos of frame contact are concerning. Maybe your springs need to be upgraded in response to your road conditions. Otherwise, the axle flip will add clearance as it has done for others.

[Ky-N]

Originally Posted by 3xplor3r

The contact is being made between the frame and the U-Bolts. Whether the axle is on top of or below the springs the springs remain at a constant distance from the frame. So they'd still hit. I need to increase the distance from the springs to the frame, hence shackles. But stiffer springs are a good idea to, perhaps both.

By moving the axle under the springs you actually gain the height of the axle and saddle minus the thickness of the plate and nuts that are moved to to the top of the springs. Yes the springs are the same distance from the frame but you have more travel before the u bolt hits the frame. Enough extra you would probably break a spring if it bent that much. It is only and inch or so but it is still more clearance than with the axle sitting on top of the springs.

[3xplor3r]

LoL thank you for your accurate description. Having pictured it in my head, you are right. It would provide more clearance.