Replacing 68.31 Inch 3,000 Pound Lippert Axle With 3,500 Pound Axle

Question:

My LCI axel has the following info posted on it: Part number 0243909 variant V000301000 also there is a long number which I think specifies the axle beam and other components such as the electric brake hubs etc. LCI35-SB-68.31-53-NOSP-US-L-545-7242-18PT-GAWR3000# I have contacted Lippert for the axel beam replacement which includes the spindles for this: they gave me the part number: Z000482533. My question is, if I replaced this LCI axle beam with an equivalent 3500 lb dexter axle beam with spindles, would the brake components, and brake hubs be able to mount onto the dexter as though they were interchangable with the LCI? Or is all that stuff different? Is it possible to just replace the LCI axle beam with a dexter? Or do I face needing to replace everything? If I wanted to do such a replacement with the dexter, what information would be needed to make sure I get the equivalent part to replace it?

asked by: Dan L

Expert Reply:

The main issue you are going to run into when trying to switch to a 3,500 lb Dexter Axle like the # T3584F-8974 is the length. The Lippert axle you have is 68.31" long with a 53" spring center length which is not at all common. It is important to pick an axle that is the same length when you choose a replacement. Assuming you matched the length, this uses the same bearings as most 3,500 lb axles with a # L44649 outer and # L68149 inner bearing.

Based on that information, your existing brakes and hubs would work with a typical 3,500 lb axle so you would not need to replace everything. Although we do not have an axle that matches this length, you could use the Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System - Straight Spindle Only - 3,500 lbs # ASR3500S05.

The Timbren uses the same bearings and would also replace your suspension. Since this system fits any frame width you would not have to worry about it matching your current 68.31" axle. Keep in mind, if you do switch to a 3,500 lb axle/system you will still be limited by the weakest component of your trailer.

I have attached some review and installation videos for your reference.