Flipping the axle on your trailer – moving it from under the springs to above them – is a common modification to increase ride height, improving ground clearance and enabling you to navigate rougher terrain. This process involves careful planning, precise execution, and a thorough understanding of your trailer’s specifications to ensure safety and proper functionality.
Understanding the Need for Axle Flipping
Many trailers are manufactured with the axle above the springs, creating a low ride height. This setup is often cost-effective for manufacturers but limits off-road capability and can cause scraping on uneven surfaces. Flipping the axle effectively raises the trailer frame, providing more ground clearance. However, it’s crucial to understand the implications and ensure it’s done safely and correctly. This isn’t a modification to take lightly and requires careful consideration of factors like brake lines, wiring, and overall trailer stability.
Essential Steps Before You Begin
Before you even think about grabbing a wrench, meticulous preparation is paramount.
1. Assessing Your Trailer
- Determine your axle type: Round axles are the most common, but square axles also exist. The procedure might slightly vary based on the axle type.
- Measure the current ride height: Note the distance between the trailer frame and the ground. This provides a baseline for comparison after the flip.
- Check your brake lines and wiring: Ensure there is sufficient slack to accommodate the increased height. You might need to extend them.
- Assess trailer capacity and weight distribution: Axle flipping can slightly alter the center of gravity. Be mindful of how this might affect towing stability, especially when loaded.
- Identify the correct tools: Wrenches, sockets, jacks, jack stands, a measuring tape, a grinder (if welding is needed), a level, and safety glasses are essential.
2. Safety First
- Chock the wheels: Securely chock the wheels on the opposite side of the trailer to prevent movement.
- Use jack stands: Never work under a trailer supported only by a jack. Jack stands are crucial for safety.
- Wear safety glasses: Protect your eyes from debris while working.
- Disconnect the trailer from the tow vehicle: Ensure the trailer is completely disconnected.
- Consult a professional if unsure: If you’re not comfortable with the process, seek guidance from a qualified mechanic.
The Axle Flipping Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
This process assumes you are flipping one axle at a time. Repeat the steps for each axle if you have a multi-axle trailer.
1. Raising the Trailer
- Use a jack to lift the trailer frame on one side, close to the axle.
- Place jack stands securely under the frame near the jack, ensuring they are rated for the trailer’s weight.
- Lower the jack until the frame rests firmly on the jack stands.
2. Disconnecting the Axle
- Remove the wheels on the side you’re working on.
- Carefully disconnect the brake lines and wiring, noting their original positions. Label them if necessary to aid in reassembly.
- Loosen and remove the U-bolts that secure the axle to the leaf springs.
- Carefully lower the axle from the springs. This might require some prying.
3. Flipping the Axle
- Rotate the axle 180 degrees.
- Position the axle above the leaf springs.
- Inspect the spring perches. If necessary, grind off the existing spring perches on the top of the axle and weld new ones on the bottom. This step is critical for proper alignment and safety. If you are not a certified welder, hire a professional.
4. Reattaching the Axle
- Secure the axle to the leaf springs using new U-bolts. Ensure they are tightened to the manufacturer’s specified torque.
- Reconnect the brake lines and wiring, extending them as needed. Double-check all connections to ensure proper functionality.
5. Lowering and Testing
- Remove the jack stands and carefully lower the trailer.
- Reinstall the wheels.
- Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Thoroughly test the brakes and lights before towing.
- Take a short test drive to ensure everything is working correctly.
- Re-torque the lug nuts after 50 miles of towing.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
- Insufficient brake line length: Purchase longer brake lines designed for the increased ride height.
- Wiring issues: Extend the wiring harness using waterproof connectors.
- Spring perch misalignment: Precisely align the new spring perches before welding to avoid uneven wear and handling problems.
- Trailer stability concerns: Consider adding a sway control system or adjusting the weight distribution to maintain stability.
Maintaining Stability and Safety Post-Flip
Flipping the axle affects the trailer’s center of gravity. Regular inspections and adjustments are necessary.
- Regularly inspect U-bolts: Ensure they remain properly torqued.
- Monitor tire wear: Uneven tire wear can indicate alignment issues.
- Be mindful of speed: Increased ride height can make the trailer more susceptible to crosswinds.
- Adjust your hitch: You might need to adjust your hitch height to maintain a level towing position.
FAQs: Answering Your Axle Flipping Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process and address potential concerns:
FAQ 1: What is the biggest benefit of flipping my trailer axle?
The primary benefit is increased ground clearance. This allows you to navigate rougher terrain and avoid scraping the trailer frame.
FAQ 2: Will flipping the axle affect my trailer’s warranty?
Potentially. Modifying the trailer could void the warranty, so check with the manufacturer before proceeding.
FAQ 3: Can I flip the axle on any type of trailer?
While possible on many trailers with leaf spring suspensions, certain trailers with torsion axles or other specialized suspensions might require different methods or render axle flipping impossible. Consult your trailer’s manual or a professional before attempting.
FAQ 4: What tools are absolutely necessary for this project?
Essential tools include a jack, jack stands, wrenches, sockets, a measuring tape, a grinder (if welding is needed), a level, safety glasses, and a torque wrench.
FAQ 5: How much lift will I gain by flipping the axle?
The amount of lift gained depends on the axle diameter and the spring thickness, but it’s generally between 4 and 6 inches.
FAQ 6: Do I need to reweld the spring perches, or are there alternatives?
If the existing perches are in the wrong position after the flip, you must either reweld them or use bolt-on spring perch adapters designed for axle flipping. The adapters are not as strong as welded perches.
FAQ 7: What is the correct torque specification for the U-bolts?
The correct torque specification depends on the U-bolt size and material. Consult your trailer’s manual or a reputable source for the correct value. It’s often found on the axle manufacturer’s website.
FAQ 8: How do I extend the brake lines safely?
Use DOT-approved brake line extensions and fittings. Ensure all connections are leak-proof. Professional installation is highly recommended.
FAQ 9: Can I flip the axle myself, or should I hire a professional?
While it’s a DIY-able project for experienced mechanics, it’s best left to professionals if you’re not comfortable with welding, brake line work, or general trailer maintenance. Improper installation can lead to serious safety issues.
FAQ 10: How does axle flipping affect trailer stability?
It raises the center of gravity, potentially making the trailer less stable, especially in crosswinds. Be cautious and adjust your driving accordingly.
FAQ 11: What are the signs that my axle flip wasn’t done correctly?
Signs include uneven tire wear, trailer sway, difficulty steering, and visible misalignment of the axle. If you notice any of these, have the work inspected immediately.
FAQ 12: How often should I inspect my trailer after flipping the axle?
Inspect the trailer before each trip and more thoroughly after the first few trips, paying close attention to the U-bolts, brake lines, and tire wear. A proactive approach to inspection will prevent future problems.
By understanding the principles, following these steps carefully, and prioritizing safety, you can successfully flip your trailer axle and enjoy the benefits of increased ground clearance. Remember, when in doubt, consult a qualified professional.