Replacement Trailer Suspension For 1971 Aristocrat Starliner Travel Trailer

Question:

Hi, I am looking to replace the entire axle/wheel assemble as well as leaf springs on my 1971 Aristocrat Starliner trailer. This trailer is fairly rare and I am certain there is no specs online about the sizes and dimensions needed. I would very much like to do this installation myself rather than take it to a shop. I would like to know if you can assist me in taking measurements/etc and let me know what information I would have to provide to get the correct parts. Ideally I would like to buy a full axle/hub/brake assemble all in one and then replace the leafs springs as well. The trailer is old, we have put a ton of time and money into restoring it and I want to be sure it is riding on new components. Thank you

asked by: Chris M

Expert Reply:

We can help you with finding what you need to replace the trailer suspension on your 71 Aristocrat.

Many times there is a plate or sticker on the axle somewhere or on the trailer that has the weight capacity and size of axle you need. That would be the easy part. If you do not have the plate or sticker or manual for the trailer you may need to take some measurements of the suspension you currently have installed.

You will need to know the weight of the trailer to make sure you have the correct capacity axle, springs, etc, when putting the system together. Using a system that is too light would not be safe and using a system that is rated a lot higher that the trailer needs would give the trailer a stiff and rough ride, which is not good either.

The largest axles we offer are 3,500 lbs like part # e43SR. This axle measures 89 inches hub-face-to-hub-face, and spring-center-to-spring-center length of 74 inches. This also has a bolt pattern of 5 on 4-1/2. This axle includes the electric brake assemblies, hubs, drums, bearings, races, seals, and mounting hardware.

The mounting kit I recommend for the axle is part # APUBR-1. This attaches the axle to the leaf springs, and is designed for 3,500 lb round axles.

The 3,500 lb capacity leaf springs I recommend are part # SP-210275. These are double-eye leaf springs.

If your trailer is rated higher or has a different capacity let me know and I will make recommendations for many of the components we carry that will work for you.