Can A Torsion Axle Be Replaced With A Timbren Axle-Less Suspension

Question:

I have a 2011 Forest River Wolf Pup 17B which I believe uses a Lippert Torsion Axle. My axle has an issue where the one tire end cants out slightly and it results in uneven tire wear. Looking for a replacement I ran across this post: https://www.etrailer.com/question-229123.html Related to that Im wondering if I can replace my torsion axle with a Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System? Something like Timbren ASR3500S06 By the way I should mention my trailer was lifted 2-3 before I bought it. It was done by adding steel spacers between the frame and the torsion axle. Thanks for any help. Its much appreciated. Brett

asked by: Brett T

Expert Reply:

Hi Brett,

You could replace your torsion axle with the Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension # ASR3500S06, but you'll first want to confirm your trailer's GVWR and remove the lift spacers. These are rated for 3,500lbs so you'll want to be careful not to overload them if your fully loaded trailer exceeds that rating. Do you know the axle capacity of the torsion axle? These need to be bolted directly to the trailer frame and since they have a 4" lift you'll still be close the the same height.

The trailer frame will need a crossbeam for support to prevent camber and uneven tire wear. If your trailer frame doesn't have a crossmember in place, you can retrofit it with one, or you can add a support by running a piece of 2" x 2" steel tubing through the square holes cut into these units. You could also add a steel reinforcement bracket to the inside of the trailer frame.

expert reply by: Kevin C

Brett T.

5/24/2024

Kevin, Thanks for getting back to me on this. My dry weight is 2681 lbs. and I would guess fully loaded we don't get over the 3500 lbs. The Wolf Pup's frame has 2 or 3 cross beams so I think we are good there. Is there a leaf spring option that would work as well? My trailer width is 80". Thanks, Brett

Heather A.

5/30/2024

@BrettT Technically yes, there is a leaf spring option but you would need to add a lot of other components like hangers and shackle straps. You would also need to figure out where to place the hangers. This is all possible but a lot more money and work. The Timbren option that Kevin mentioned is the best way.

Brett

5/31/2024

@HeatherA Thanks for getting back to me. I've decided to replace the original Lippert axle with another one from the manufacture. It costs less than the Timbren system, includes new brakes, hubs, bearings and I can simply unbolt the other one and bolt up the new one. I do appreciate your help. Thanks, Brett