Determining If Factory Shocks Can Be Reused After Installing Axle Over-Under Kit

Question:

I have a Jayco Designer 5th wheel trailer. It is currently equipped with shocks on both axles. Is there a way to do the over under conversion and still use the shocks?

asked by: Brian M

Expert Reply:

If the upper shock mounts on your Jayco Designer 5th wheel are just bolted on then you can install the Dexter Over-Under Kit # K71-385-00 you were looking at and just relocate the upper bracket to a location where you have shock compressed half way when it is sitting under its own weight, and at an angle that matches the original positioning.

Now if your upper shock mounting bracket is not bolted on it is possible that after installing the over-under kit you will still have the shock in close to the same place but you will want to verify how much the shock is compressed when the trailer has its weight on the axles and compare that to the total compression/extension of the shock.

If you find your shocks cannot be reused then I recommend going ahead and replacing them with the Roadmaster Comfort Ride Shock Absorbers for Tandem Axle Trailers - 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb Axle # RM-2460 which will work perfectly with an over-under kit installed.

I included a video of the # RM-2460 being installed for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Samuel C