How To "Flip" Your Camper Axles

[@slamboy66]

The frame is right there, I always make sliders for the dumps and the whole rear . One of my old trailers with a single axle lifted a tire .

[@ColoradoCamperman]

That's a good call making sliders for the dumps and the whole rear. I think low clearance trailers should come stock with those. Thanks for watching!

[@sspeedy2859]

Did you weld the new axle perch's back on? How did it all work out 8 years later?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Yes, I show us welding the new perches on the axle in the video. We never had any issues after we did this. In fact, it was by far the best upgrade we ever did to our camper in the 10 years we had it!

[@sspeedy2859]

@@ColoradoCamperman Wow Great Job!

[@Lagesseable]

Great video. Silly question... Why can't you just rotate the axels so that the leafe seats are ontop, instead of welding new ones on? Thanks

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Thanks Chris! There is a natural bow to axles, if you actually flip them, the bow will be pointed in the wrong way. Thanks for watching Chris!

[@WilderhopeAdventures]

The axles on my camper had already been flipped when I bought it, but the individual had also done a very half-assed lift on it with 4" tube steel. I ended up upgrading the axles to almost double what they were (from 3500# each to 6000# each) and added a channel-iron sub-frame. The only negative to lifting the camper with both flipped axles and the sub-frame is that the steps aren't really low enough to climb into the camper anymore.

[@whitetailhollowacres6917]

I bought an older fifth wheel and am wanting to do some sort of lift to level it out with my pickup. I've got a 04 Dodge 3/4 ton with a Cummins. It's not too bad, but I don't want to tare off the jacks when getting into some places. I'm glad I found this video.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Glad it could be helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@mattgrant864]

Will this work on fifth wheels as well because my 2000 trailer is shorter than my truck and have the take affect

[@mattgrant864]

Thanks man I'm going to look for some one to do it for me

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Brijoe hit it right on. It'll definitely work. Good luck with the project and thanks for watching!

[@nerolsalguod4649]

Born in Denver, raised in GrandJunction. Ive put together several trailers that I modified. As a mechanic I always look at the engineering/ design and ask : Why didnt they build it this way or that way. Some companies just do simple overgrid and go for it. Others put more thought into dedign. The best designs come from those whom have used a similar product in the feild under all conditions and know what works best. When it looks good on paper but not feild tested, it usually ends up being Junk and sales go down the tubes. I like how you went about the flip. Enjoy beautiful colorado, and if you ever have opportunity, see the drive through the mountains going to Montrose ( hwy 50) from the western slope side, and a great place to visit is Escalante canyon. My father lived in Capt. H.A. Smiths cabin as a boy in the early 20s. One of my favorite places. Stay safe, enjoy, till next time.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

I agree with you 100%! Some designs I see on trailers I always ask, "have they actually tested that out in the field, because that isn't going to work!" The most notable thing I can think of are dump valves. Our camper was a perfect example, prior to the flip we had no clearance for the dump valves. I nearly ripped them off on several occasions and I did get my rear jack stuck on a cattle guard that nearly ripped it off! Such a poor design. The "flip" has helped tremendously and I never worry about my dump valves. I would love to visit Montrose and the surrounding areas! I have only heard good things about that area. Thanks for the tip , I will have to check out Escalante Canyon. We talked about visit that part of Colorado this summer but I don't know if we will have the time off available to do so. If not, we will plan on it next year. Thanks for your comment and watching!

[@travisroper218]

What about the stability and wind resistance when pulling?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

We've towed our camper now for 6 seasons after flipping the axles. We haven't had any issues with stability or wind resistance. We have primarily towed with a long bed, 3/4 ton truck or better which I think helps. However we have towed with an 02' 1500 Silverado and 08' Expedition and they have done fine as well. My in laws have a camper that is 1ft longer than ours and their axles are not flipped. I don't notice any difference in towing our camper versus theirs. The only thing I wish we would have done when we flipped the axles was upgrade to a MorRyde CRE3000 with wet bolts. We did that last year and it makes a world of difference! So, if you flip your axkes, I recommend doing that at the same time. Hope that helps, thanks for watching!

[@utamakimchi2599]

Awesome set up and job on that camper.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Thank you!

[@k.r.v.4219]

I know an engineer who rigged up a system that will raise and lower the spring perch, at the shackles. He get just over 4" more in lift when needed and the lowers it back to normal for center of gravity and overhead clearance. He also added shocks that really helped the ride and sway.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

That sounds pretty sweet and would definitely come in handy! I don't think I would have the skill set to be able to do that though.

[@MrBULLRIDER13]

Sounds like an airbag or hydraulics setup.

[@chrismktgpsu]

I believe you are referring to a shackle lift. They are a pretty common/cheap mod for spring leaf 4x4 vehicles such as jeeps.

[@mathewzy2]

Now that you completed the flip, and raised the ground clearance of the trailer. Did you also have to perform a lift to the jacks to compensate for the axle lift?

[@thecatsfan]

Lifting the jacks (which would actually lower them from the frame) would take away ground clearance. On my lifted campers, I simply had some good heavy blocks with me to put under the leveling jacks for added height and a solid surface to land on.

[@itunesify]

Looks fantastic. So next question. I’m in Missouri. How much could I pay your buddy to come do mine.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Lol, a lot of people have asked me that question! That's a little too far for me. Thanks for watching!

[@kenj4296]

so...I'm tossing around the idea of doing this to my 95 23' 5th wheel, my 05 2500 RAM with bags inflated puts what I consider A LOT of weight on the rear axel/tires of the tandem set up, but just wondering if the work is worth it

[@ColoradoCamperman]

This is by far the best upgrade we have ever done to our camper! It helped us with clearance issues around town and off-road. If you have a low clearance 5th wheel, you will love having done this upgrade! If you decide to do this, I would recommend upgrading your hangers and shackles to the MoreRyde CRE 3000 system with wet bolts. We did that years after we flipped the axles but wish we would have done it at the same time because you remove basically all the same parts. It provides a much smoother ride while towing your camper. Here's a link to that video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/paGlfnSPr6qgo5o Hope that helps, thanks for watching!

[@amandainthemtns]

I thought i had the only TT with an obnoxiously low dump valve. I'm definitely looking into getting my axels flipped.

[@justgonnastay]

A stabilizer jack incident is exactly the reason I am here!

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Lol, that's sounds awfully familiar! Thanks for watching Chris!

[@wanderinmoose5534]

Outstanding idea ! Us car guys been doing that for years on our trucks and 4x4's !! No reason why it can not be done on travel trailers, also.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Wanderin' Moose I honestly never knew you could do it until last summer when my buddy told me it could be done. That was the #1 mod I wanted to do on the trailer this year and am very happy that it is already done!

[@eiserntorsphantomoftheoper2154]

+soaringtractor You're right. Jeeps are the only underslung spring setup I've come across (CJ)

[@WestCoastRoller]

Nice job. Definitely a must for going into the backcountry.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

West Coast Roller Thanks, I definitely agree!

[@kpdvw]

Great idea! How did you raise the towing hitch to compensate for the additional lift?

[@markcobb6561]

Liberty Patriot you don't lift the hitch if your trying to gain clearance in the rear of the trailer.

[@internetcrap7]

Mark Cobb yeah you do

[@robertl4]

They make lift/ lower hitches that you slide into the receiver

[@3lynyrd]

How does the trailer ride now ? Cornering ? Wouldn’t this make it a bit too heavy ?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

It rides like a normal camper. We still have the camper. At this point, I couldn't tell you what is was like before flipping the axles. I did a video on the camper's ride after flipping the axles : kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZyUZ5-pgauFhqc I talk about some of the differences I noticed. I would definitely recommend doing this is you're struggling with ground clearance. Last year I installed a MorRyde CRE 3000 system. I would recommend installing that system with the wet bolts when doing the axle flip. That has made a huge difference in ride quality! Here's that video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/paGlfnSPr6qgo5o Thanks for watching and good luck with the project!

[@70454monte]

Lucky to have all the supervisors at 704. I have a similar group that always show up on project day never to work just there to help drink my beer. LOL

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Lol, yeah I was LMOA when they showed up and busted out the lawn chairs to just watch! Luckily I had two guys that were a HUGE help, thanks for watching!

[@mitchhenderson]

Sweet Vid! I have the same kit. What size welder are you using? Curious if mine's big enough.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Thanks Mitch! That was actually my friend's welder, I don't know for sure what size it is. Sorry, thanks for watching!

[@kenbaak907]

Going to do this soon. How difficult was it to align the new mounts and what settings were used on the welder? Set up for the thickness of the mount? Thanks

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+Ken Baak Great to hear! It is a must-do in my opinion if you have low clearance plumbing or plan on camping anywhere off-road. It was pretty easy to align the new spring seats. They just sit above the old ones. Just got to make sure they are level and in the right place. Since I didn't weld it, I can't tell you what the welder settings were. As for the thickness of the mount, if you go into a trailer shop, they should have all the materials that you need. The spring seats are different sizes based on how big your axle is and the weight capacity of the axle. I live in Colorado Springs and I went to Hickman Trailer. If you don't have a specialty trailer store near you, you could give them a call and find out the specs of what you need or maybe even order from them. I hope that helps. Good luck with the project!

[@robertl4]

I find that just bolting the new perches to the old ones hold then in place and can help in fine tuning the placements before welding

[@northgeorgia7357]

Is your truck a 150 or 250? I have a 150 V8 5.0 and I have just about the same trailer you have and wondering how well your truck pulls it. I was pulling it with an E250 and didn't have a problem but haven't tried with the 150.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

That was a Ram 3500 5.9l diesel and it towed it great. Now I have a Chevy 2500 V8 6.0L with a 6 speed transmission and it does great too. I prefer at least a 3/4 ton truck while towing and I always get long beds. Thanks for watching!

[@JAYFEATHERBOONDOCKS]

Good work man, it is very beneficial to flip axles on a camper. I always wanted to see this but never searched it out before. Thanks for sharing! Watch your tire tread the first 100 or so miles for extra wear in case something is off or not straight, but you shouldn't have any problem at all! my camper came from the factory raised like that because there is is a slide-out above the axle. Again thanks for sharing, looking forward to the live hangout when your on! Thanks Jed

[@ColoradoCamperman]

NDNomad Thanks Jed. I will definitely be inspecting the wear on the tires and re-torquing the lug nuts. So far everything looks normal. That is great that yours came flipped, it wasn't that hard of a project but was much needed. I am surprised they didn't do it from the factory considering we almost ripped off our damn dump tank valves several times.

[@nerolsalguod4649]

Did this two years ago and spread the axles, for a water tank trailer , (250 gallon)X-2. This changes the center of gravity and catches more wind. The front can be fitted with a serrated wind dam to stabilize the trailer in transit. The U- bolts should be replaced as they have already been stressed. PB blaster works best. U- bolts must be torqued to specs. Nice job!

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Thank you for watching and your input!

[@kylekarwowski2642]

I am going to have to do this out in the woods. Got my camper in a spot I can't get it out of without lifting it due to heavy rains and logging activity. Anyway to mount those perches without welding? I don't have access to an AC welder.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Sorry to hear that, I am not aware of a way to do that without welding. Good luck, sorry I couldn't be more help.

[@kylekarwowski2642]

Thanks for the quick reply and great video. I wish I had a friend who owned a welding rig with some mud tires. Luckily the camper is a single axle, so I will probably just leave the it up on the jacks and take the axle to a machine shop to have them weld the perches on. Thanks again man! Great camera angles and simple list of parts/tools, real handy when doing it away from home.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

@@kylekarwowski2642 You're welcome, sounds like you got a plan put together. Good luck!

[@pattymiller8447]

I'm told that doing this it will make the camper top heavy. Do you have trouble with wind and passing trucks? I have a 30 ft. 2012 Salem cruse lite. I have ripping off my back jacks. I pull it with a 2500 Chevy.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

I personally haven't noticed a bit of difference at all. We also have an equilizer hitch properly set up and I think that helps big time. IMHO, as long as you have the proper tow vehicle, you should have no problem doing this to your Truck (it sounds like you are good with a 2500). We almost lost our back jacks and flush valves several times, this was a necessity in our opinion. Good luck and thanks for watching.

[@The3800Bird]

I'm looking to do this to our camper to bring it up level with our tow vehicle as I am already as low as possible on the hitch shank. Funny enough it's the exact same RV as in the video. My only concern is stability and sway.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

That's awesome! We did that back in 2014 and have not had any issues with stabilty or sway. We also tow with a 3/4ton, crew cab, 8' long bed truck which helps out. However, we have towed this camper with a 1/2 ton, extended cab, 6' short bed truck and it did fine. No sway or instability. Good luck with the project and thanks for watching!

[@The3800Bird]

@@ColoradoCamperman I am towing this with a 2009 Expedition, I have towed around town and on the interstate to see how it handled and it did perfectly fine. So now I am even more convinced that flipping the axles should not cause any issues, it may even pull better once everything is sitting level.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

@@The3800Bird Great to hear, yeah, we didn't notice any change in towing. Like you said, if anything, it towed better since it was more level.

[@brettfidler3801]

Did you find it necessary to add bump stops after doing the flip?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

No. I installed them on our new truck because had a softer ride than our old truck. After flipping the axles the trailer towed like normal and continues to tow well. I've also always towed with a crew cab, long bed, 3/4ton truck or better. So our trucks have weighed more than our camper. However, I towed our camper with a 1500 Silverado and also an Expedition when our old truck was in the shop. Those vehicles also did well and didn't have any issues towing after flipping the axles. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching.

[@brettfidler3801]

@@ColoradoCamperman ok sounds good. I just got a 2014 gmc 1500 crew cab with the max trailering package with the 3.73 rear. It's rated to tow 11,100lbs. It towed our 26ft travel trailer great this last trip but the brackets on the back designed to take the scraping broke and it broke my Grey and black water valves off. My driveway is pretty steep, So that's why I want to do the flip. I ordered the dexter trailer conversion kit from etailer and their instruction guide recommended putting on bump stops, however it sounded like over kill that's why I asked. And yes thanks for the video it is very helpful and informative!

[@ColoradoCamperman]

@@brettfidler3801 Our trailer had the same clearance problems as yours. We almost ripped off a rear jack on our camper. We knew it was just a matter of time before we would rip off our grey and black tank valves. The flip has been great and I would strongly recommend it to others dealing with clearance issues. The bump stops just help with ride quality and I would recommend those as well if you feel the sway motion of your camper. I installed the Timbren SES. Thanks for watching and good luck with the project!

[@smacdiesel]

Nice modification, good to have some capable friends!

[@ColoradoCamperman]

smacdiesel Thank you, yes I couldn't have done it without them. Awesome guys!

[@AngelTorres-se9zf]

Hello, I am a newbie to the whole camping experience and after watching your interesting video I was wondering what are the advantages to lifting your camper? Also why flip the axles, why not just get a lift kit? Please pardon my ignorance I would just like to know. Thank you for taking time to make this video and looking forward to hearing from you very soon. Angel(New Jersey)

[@paulsotacdecambra2934]

I may have missed this if you addressed this in your video but why not just flip the axles over and use the stock spring perches?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Because the axles have a bow to them, they are only meant to go one way. If you actually flip the axle, the bow is in the wrong direction.

[@sergerigel8415]

Great video! I'm taking my camper to northern Michigan this fall, and am really concerned with my ground clearance back in the hills. This will be a must do mod this summer.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Serge Rigel Thank you! That sounds like how our situation was. It was a must do for us because we do the majority of our camping on National Forest. Good luck with the mod and thanks for watching!

[@briteRedaz16]

I need to do this to my trailer. I was wondering why not spin the axle 180 degrees and reuse the perches already on the axle?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Trailer axles have a natural bow to them. They are only meant to go one way. Therefore, you cannot just spin the axle over 180°. Thanks for watching.

[@stbenardnot510]

Back in the day when our semi trailers had springs the ubolts were never reused. They stretch when torqued down the first time & loose their original strength.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Thanks for watching

[@comeaujosh]

Did you install bump stops

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Not on the trailer, years later I installed some Timbren bump stops on my truck. Just last year I also installed the MORryde CRE 3000 system with wet bolts on our trailer. I would strong recommend installing that at the time of flipping the axles. That helps out tremendously with trailer ride quality. The factory hangers with the nylon bushings are trash. Good luck with the project, thanks for watching!

[@johnwolf1475]

any problem with teh actual axle being low? that height hasnt changed... teh axle bar going acrosss

[@ColoradoCamperman]

I never had any issues with clearance and the axle. My main issue was always the rest of the camper nearly bottoming out on every dip in the road.

[@1BlackSheep]

Just asking why the new spring perches why not turn the axle over and use the factory ones

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+GRASS GUY There is a bow/arch in your axle and if you actually flipped the axles, the bow would be facing the opposite way.

[@rodneyhendrix1292]

Colorado Camperman , Those axles are cambered underslung not over slung when you changed from under to over the camber is of on the wheels, the trailer weight is absorbed by straightened​ out the bow( camber). Worked in Dexter Axle co. know axles.

[@stuartmackenzie383]

Thanks very helpful. I have just two questions. 1 how does the trailer handle now. 2 I heard some where that you had to have the axles alined or the tires would wear wrong. Has that been true for you thanks

[@jeffmansfield3941]

stuart mackenzie

[@davidjohnson5446]

How did it pull afterwards, any problems etc.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

It pulls great! No difference in towing, if anything it tows better since it is more level with my truck now. Check out this video I did about it after I flipped it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZyUZ5-pgauFhqc

[@martybrandon7002]

does a pop up camper have a bow in axle I want to flip axle on mine ? thanxx

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+marty Brandon To my knowledge most do, I would have to see it to be able to tell. By welding on the new perches, you can't go wrong with that decision. If you are unsure, I would just weld on the new perches.

[@mikem5043]

I had mine flipped on my toyhauler a few years ago and now want to revert them back to original

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Really? Why? Our ground clearance was incredible low, we had no choice unless we wanted to just camp at campgrounds.

[@jeremiahslater2220]

Hey, you want to do another one? I'm in Colorado springs.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Lol, so many people have asked me, maybe I should open up a shop! I unfortunately don't have all the tools to do the work and the guy helping me is in his 70s and has had some pretty serious health conditions come up since the video. But, if you need supplies, go to Hickman Trailer in the Springs. They are great and can hook you up, they may even do axle flips now, I know they do some maintenance items. It'd be worth asking. Thanks for watching and good luck!

[@servalferretraficante4016]

Thanks man, how many hours of work was that? I don't have a buddy or 99% of those tools, is $850 a fair price from a shop? It is a tandem axle fifth wheel

[@ColoradoCamperman]

You're welcome! It probably took the 3 of us working for 3-4 hours to complete the job, so 9-12 man hours total. Now, keep in mind, this is me (who was a first timer) and 2-65+ year old guys doing this. So, for professionals to do this job, it'd easily be half the time or less. So maybe 4-6 hours. At $850, does that include all labor and materials? $850 at 4 hours that's $212.50/hour. $850 at 6 hours that's $141.67/hour. That seems in line with prices around here.

[@krispeters1272]

So when you flip axles do you just leave brakes upside down?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

7:24 of the video, check it out. You do not actually flip the axle. You weld new perches on the top of the axle so the leaf springs sit on top of the axle instead of the bottom. Thanks for watching.

[@randyroam1]

Did you flip the ball or change your receiving hitch too?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

RandyRoam1 Luckily we didn't have to do anything. My hitch has 4 or 5 different levels you can adjust it to. We already had it on the lowest setting. Now that we have raised the camper the truck is perfectly level with the camper on the lowest setting of my hitch.

[@gonzo5912]

1. is that as safe as it was inside the leaf spring, 2. is the axle pinned in place like original, and 3. do you use anti-sway bars.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+Gonzo 59 When you flip the axles, the leaf spring is bolted into the exact same position. The axles now just sits on the bottom of the leaf spring instead of sitting on top. And yes I use anti-sway bars. So far I haven't noticed a bit of difference while towing the camper.

[@timmytool1231]

Lot of people forget to or don't know to align the axles after, other wise you end up with worn tires.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

True, thanks for the tip and watching!

[@jimdingo]

Did you feel like the trailer became any less stable after lifting it? You've raised the centre of gravity, just wondering if you noticed any difference.

[@RebelBama]

I have done lift my old camper in 2013. U don't have to weld the spring mounts. The axles is straight, u can flip the axle and turn the brake backplate to correct position. It is very easy to do only 4 bolts. Mine can't do bec have drop axle. If I did, it will be dangerous whenever hit pothole and could rip the u-bolts or springs or damage axle. So I had to weld new spring mounts. My camper sit so low because it's old 1977. Now it sit little high and pull good and does good in off road while hunting season.

[@RebelBama]

Check wintermetalhd s video. That is correct way to lift the camper with drop axle. Yours have straight axles, no plm to turn the axles 180 degrees. Just change the brake backplate to correct position.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

My axle had a slight bow to it as most do. That is why we welded the perches the way we did. I checked out wintermetalhd's video, he did it the same way I did.

[@MartyBoardman]

Great explanation! I have a similar trailer, good to know it can be lifted that high. Also good to know there's no way I could do it myself. Hah! Thanks!

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Thank you! Glad it could be helpful and give you some information. Thanks for watching!

[@buckeyedrew5058]

How long did the project take?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Man, it's been a few years since we did that project but I think that it took us 5-6 hours with 3 guys. It takes a good amount of time to get done and It definitely helps if you have a couple extra hands! Good luck with the project and thanks for watching!

[@kawie400]

Colorado, could you tell me how you got the trailer lifted up high enough to get the wheel off the ground? I have a 5th wheel that I'm going to try and do the winter. Also other people have told me that I needed to make sure that the axles have a bow in them so that they have some kind of flex in them. Have you heard of this?? Thanks great video by the way.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

To get it lifted that high up, we just used the largest floor jacks we had and in some cases we used a 4x4 on top of the jack to raise it higher. From what I have researched, there should be a slight bow in the axles. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching!

[@kawie400]

thanks

[@TracyWessel]

When you jacked up the trailer, did you just rely on wheel chocks to prevent movement, or did you have it resting on your hitch?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

If you look at 6:11 of the video, you will see we just jacked up the trailer and set it on jack stands so that it was completely suspended.

[@a002074t]

I just bought a used trailer and it seems it was overloaded at some point, causing the axle to bow down instead of up. Rather than bending it back, I like the idea of welding new spring mounts on the opposite side and just flipping the axle.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

A lot of trailer axles have a natural bow to them. In fact our axles are both slightly bowed. If you take your trailer to a RV shop or a trailer store, they can take a few measurements to determine if it is bad axle and needs to be replaced. I did this on our camper because we were getting un-even wear on our tires. We determined one of the axles is bent slightly more then the other. After talking to the trailer dealer, he said we should be fine with the bent axle, we just need to keep an eye on the tires. If we start to see a lot more wear on a tire, it may be time to replace the axle. He also mentioned that trailer axles take a lot of abuse and tend to bend pretty easy so unless our axles gets really bad, it's not worth it to replace it.

[@javierfernandez855]

What would be a fair cost to have this work done at a shop?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

I'm guessing a shop could do this in a manner of 4-5 hours. So if they charge $100/hour, maybe $500 without parts?!? I'm not sure to be honest. Sorry I couldn't be of more help. Thanks for watching.

[@rthousand]

Is there anywhere in Colorado that will do this for you??? I’m not good with mechanics and hoping to find someone local?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Hickman Trailer in Colorado Springs would do this. Also, I'm pretty sure Spekken Iron and metal in Pueblo would. I just recently bought a new axle from them and they also welded some cracks on my camper. They said the would install the axle so I'm assuming they would do the flip. Call trailer shops - not just RV shops/sales. They seem more likely to do something like this. Thanks for watching!

[@nickhillestad7965]

Why to put a new perch on instead of flipping rolling it on top being a straight axle

[@ColoradoCamperman]

There is a natural bow in the axle that is only meant to go one way. If you actually flipped the axle 180 degrees, this bow would be facing the wrong direction. Thanks for watching.

[@dwhunts]

Just wondering if you have pulled it in any high cross winds since you raised it? If so, does it seem any less stable? I've got a similar set up to yours, 3/4 ton 4x4, and 25' travel trailer. Have you taken CO highway 50 from Pueblo to Gunnison, and how is it with the TT?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Good question, we have driven the camper in 20-30 mph sustained winds with 40-50 mph gusts. I honestly haven't noticed any difference while towing after lifting the camper. I talk a little bit about my experience towing after lifting in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZyUZ5-pgauFhqc If you have a 3/4 ton truck, I think that helps big time. If it's a long bed, I think that helps even more. I have taken highway 50 from Canon City to Salida, it is not bad at all with the camper. I really enjoy towing the camper now vs before because I never have to worry about the rear end bottoming out. If you do quite a bit of dispersed camping or your rear end bottoms out on nearly every dip, I highly recommend flipping your axles. Good luck and happy camping!

[@2-old-Forthischet]

I understand your concern with the clearance issue of the items you mentioned but as a former off road enthusiast, the lowest point, axle to ground still hasn't changed due to the tire size. I have helped to dig out people who had lifted vehicles because they forgot about the axle to ground clearance. BTW, I did have this done on my boat trailer with a new axle and perches. The cost of a new axle was kind of minimal so if it was coming out anyway, I just decided to get a new one.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

I totally understand what you're talking about with the axle clearance, I thought about that too. My main concern was those darn dump tank valves because even when driving in the city where low dips in the road were, I was almost scraping them. If we end up doing a lot more dispersed camping I think I will follow your advice and get some bigger tires. My buddy has a Starcraft Extreme Toy Hauler that is lifted and has bigger tires from the factory, he can take that thing just about anywhere! Thanks for your comment and watching!

[@2-old-Forthischet]

My trailer has skid hoops near the tanks. Good luck.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

That's great, more RV builders should have those stock on trailers with low valves.

[@TracyWessel]

my skid bars have been broken on both sides, and the sewer valves replaced twice. Installing the Dexter Spring Kit this week. Wish me luck. Neighbor is helping.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Tracy Wessel Good choice! I don't understand why some campers have such low clearance from the factory. Good luck with everything!

[@amyharvey2478]

Since we don't have 'handy' friends how much would something like this cost. Ours is a 2015 FR Vengeance 31'. Thanks.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

amy harvey I don't know for sure to be honest. It's about $100 in parts and would maybe be $500-$1000 for labor? That is a total guess.

[@TracyWessel]

I got quotes for $500 and $700 from two different shops. One shop was an RV repair center, the other was an undercarriage shop. I've decided to work with my neighbor to do it. A bit nervous, but it needs to be done, and I don't have $500 extra for this project.

[@duramaxdiesel774]

nice job man, I keep this video just if I ever need to do so in our travel trailer ..

[@brianzakavec6910]

+Cesar Morales Thank you! This way easily the best thing that we have done to our travel trailer since we owned it. I highly recommend it!

[@bobwoerner8731]

hi,,,,,,i have a 6x10 cargo trail gvwr 2990. not sure of actual trailer weight. the trailer stands aprox.86 " high. my garage door opening is only 84" . due to hoa rules where i live i have to keep it in my garage. i was able to get it in just barely by flattening the wheels. but this s not to practical to use the trailer often.i have decided to leave it on just bare rims to solve my clearance problem to pul it in and out of the garage. and install the rimed tires once in the driveway.what i would like to know is can i raise the trailer safely leaving the hitch connected to my truck and jacking the trailer up from the center of the rear with a 3 ton floor jack to install both tires with out having to jack it up twice once from either side? will the floor jack lift the weight enough to get the tires on ? will this procedure be safe to do? keep in mind i will chock the truck tires and use jack stands under the rear when enough height is reached to take off the bare rims and install the tires.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+bob woerner If it were me doing the work, I wouldn't see a problem with keeping the trailer hooked up to the truck while jacking up the trailer. I have gotten flat tires on trailers before while driving down the road and I stay hooked up. However, I would just jack up one side at a time. A 3ton floor jack will lift 6,000lbs, so it sounds like based on your trailer it should have no problem lifting it up. Darn clearance issues! It would be great if all residential doors were 8' or 10' instead of 7'. Good luck!

[@bobwoerner8731]

yea , jacking the one side at a time is what I was trying to avoid. just feel like it would take twice as long. was giving some thought to it again and thought adding two jack stands in the front corners of the trailer before starting to lift would avoid a twisting on the ball hitch. then once the lifting height of aprox 8 inches is reached to pull the bare rims and put on the wheels adding 2 jack stands in the rear corners keeping it from collapsing the jack

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+bob woerner Adding some jack stands to the mix would not be a bad idea at all. Hopefully you don't have to do this too often!

[@bobwoerner8731]

no that often,,,,,,turned it into a camper. maybe once a month or so and a few road trips

[@Sirskibumsalot]

I have to do the same thing to my enclosed utility trailer , i keep all my fishing gear in it 2 boats on top , motor cycle , tools , camping gear ...its a little low for me and I have dragged the rear of it before off roading .

[@ColoradoCamperman]

It makes a huge difference and I am very glad we did this. This is by far the best upgrade I have done to any of my campers! It's really not too hard either as long as you have the right tools and a little bit of help.

[@Sirskibumsalot]

Yea I will get it done this fall and its a lot smaller enclosed trailer 10' x 6' so I think i can do it myself . thanks for the video happy trails .....SB

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Yeah, I bet you can do that yourself if you have all the right tools. Good luck with upgrade!

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+Amanda Benis Seems like most camper's over 24' have low tanks. Dunno why they just don't do this straight from the factory!

[@dwightstewart7181]

+Colorado Camperman Instability, higher center of gravity resulting in increased risk of rollover, and unnecessary in the environment (roads, etc) intended.

[@tiffanyberting4058]

This is a great video! Thanks so much for taking the time to post this, step by step. We just bought the same camper and after driving it home to our driveway, my husband and I already see a need to lift! After a year of driving, how do you feel about wind drag, etc. on the highway? We have been towing a pop-up for 8 years, so this is already a big adjustment. We do not want to jeopardize stability on the road. Are you still happy with the flip?

[@venoxidae]

I, myself, live in pueblo, and have a trailer that needs help with this exact procedure. I lack the tools, and would like to know if your friends are willing to help for a fee.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

I appreciate the offer! Believe it or not, the guys that helped me in the video are in their 70's. As of late, they unfortunately are not physically able to do this type of work anymore. And they were the ones with all the tools. Hickman trailer in Colorado Springs will do this for you. You could also call Speken Iron out on the Mesa. I had to get a new axle for my camper and that is where I purchased it from. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching!

[@venoxidae]

@@ColoradoCamperman Thank you for responding.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

@GrimLock Official No problem

[@jeffengland8136]

Did you find that you needed to replace your tires on the trailer after you completed this project? My biggest reservation at this point is that the trailer might look odd over seemingly too small of tires.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+Jeff England No we have not changed out our tires. Our camper actually looks much better. Before it looks like a low rider lol!

[@jeffengland8136]

+Colorado Camperman Excellent, thanks. I've seen your video commenting on how it tows, but just yesterday I pulled my trailer in some windy conditions. Now that you've had your axles flipped for a little while, have you found much difference in how it pulls in wind? My two biggest concerns about flipping axels are looks and top heavy :-)

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+Jeff England I was concerned about that too after I flipped my axles. I honestly having noticed much of a difference in the wind and we have driven in pretty windy conditions since we flipped the axles. What is your truck and camper setup? Have you had issues when towing in the wind before? If you have, you may notice it a little more after you flip the axles. For us, we never had any problems before we flipped the axles and really didn't notice a difference after. IMHO, there are a few things we have that really help while towing in the wind (and towing in general): 1)We have a longbed 1 ton truck. 2)Our camper is way under the tow capacity of our truck. 3)We have a great equalizer hitch setup. I think as long as you have a proper setup with your truck and camper, you shouldn't notice much of a difference after you flip the axles. I hope that helps!

[@quaddingsous]

Nice job on the video! I was measuring my Toy Hauler up last summer lookin' to do the same thing, but ran out of time. You're video has gave me some incentive to get this lined up for first thing this spring! YEEEEHAW!

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+quaddingsous Thanks! Yeah, it is totally worth it! We go dispersed camping a lot and now we can get into places we would have never been able to before. Good luck with it, let me know if you have any questions!

[@randyroam1]

You got some really good friends, I'm surprised you used the same u-bolts. Its usually one time use only for safety. I'm guessing you got a brake booster in that cool dodge now. I'm thinking that most people will not understand what you just did, from spring under axle to spring over axle gaining 5 inches.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

RandyRoam1 Yeah, it helps that they are 65-70 years old and retired! Lol. They always tell me I was born in the wrong generation because I have quite a few friends around their age. Spraying the PB blaster and WD-40 in the U-Bolts really helped loosen things up and it seems like the integrity of the U-bolts/nuts were not compromised when taking them off. I am going to keep an eye on them and ensure they stay nice and tight. I took a vid of installing my brake controller but accidentally erased a few of the main shots. Dodge makes it sooo easy if you truck comes pre-wired for towing. When I sold my 4Runner I took my brake controller out so all I needed to get was the wiring harness from the Dodge to my brake controller. It probably took me a whopping 5 min on the install. I wish every upgrade was that quick! I agree that most people may not understand what I meant when flipping the axles. I was confused at first too. I think I may make a separate video showing exactly what I mean.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+Liberty Patriot My equilizer hitch has 3 or 4 different positions on it so you can raise or lower your hitch.

[@nerolsalguod4649]

Used to live in Pueblo, and Canon city.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Heck yeah! We have lots of friend and family down in Pueblo :)

[@bongspit]

What are the pros and cons now that it's been on there for a while?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+richard weed Great question, I did a video on this about a week after I flipped the axles: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZyUZ5-pgauFhqc But I will give you a quick few. Pros: Increased ground clearance of rear end by 5" (it use to come close to hitting on dips. The camper and truck are now more level - my truck sits really high and now with the camper hooked up tows more level. I also have better access in my wheel wells and underneath my camper - it is much easier to work on things down there! Cons: So far the only con I would say is the increased height. When we take the camper into national forest land, we are more prone to hitting low hanging branches now. Some people may think that a con would be that your towing will change and the camper will be a little more tippy. This is not my experience. Again, for me it may tow better just due to the fact that now my truck and camper are level. I hope that helps!

[@012345snap012345]

+Colorado Camperman why did you have to weld a new perch instead of rotating the axle?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+Nico v There is a bow/arch in your axle and if you actually flipped the axles, the bow would be facing the opposite way.

[@camarodvr88]

I would imagine welding the new perches on the axel housing was the most tedious part, Maurine both are in alignment/square on

[@Deanturnbow]

The axle is bent from the factory. If you don't mark the top & install it upside down or in a different position it'll cause excessive tire wear

[@ColoradoCamperman]

For sure, it's gotta be pretty precise! Thanks for watching.

[@Sanyi83]

Brian, do you know of anyone that will do this service on a camper?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Unfortunately I do not know anyone that does this. It seems like everyone just does it themselves because companies do not like the potentially liability aspect of doing this. You may be able to contact a trailer place and see if they do this. The place in Colorado Springs I bought the hardware from is Hickman Trailers, they had everything I needed and they say people do this all the time. I did not ask if they perform the service or not, but they maybe do.

[@nthewalk]

Good job 👍

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Thank you! Thanks for watching!

[@PHIXTup]

Tell your crew to come over and help with mine next. I’ll supply cold beer

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Lol, I'll ask them if they're up to it! Where you located?

[@7blueblaze]

if you flip it, and reverse that bow, wouldn't it be dangerously monkeying with the original engineering of the axle to trailer design and said performance? Mines low also and would love a safe and sound solution?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Good question. So you don't actually flip the axle. You actually remount the leaf springs from the top of the axle to the bottom. This way you keep that bow. Since we flipped the axles, we've driven thousands of miles and have not felt un-safe at all. The trailer does not feel tippy and it tows great! It probably even tows better then before because it is more level with our truck. Hope that helps ya, thanks for watching!

[@7blueblaze]

Colorado Camperman I think you meant to say from the bottom of the axle to the top of the axle. I know there's engineering evolved from tuning into channels from the past regarding axle height, trailer height etc... regarding wind sheer and wind side load towards blowing over in higher winds. I love raising it as long as it's not driving in the 30 to 40 gust side wind senarios. With those type winds a trailer should probably be parked anyway, at least till they calm down. It sure is tempting - just probably not something you'ld want to mention to the insurance company in leiu of a bad day. I hate the tank piping etc being that low to the ground. Those pipes are just waiting for a mishap lol. Thanks for the video.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

@@7blueblaze No, I meant from the top to the bottom. Check out the video at 8:05. The axle on the right is how the axle was originally and the one on the left is "flipped". Again, you move the axle from the top of the leaf springs, to the bottom. I agree, no matter what, driving in 30-40mph gusts is not fun. IMO, as long as your tow vehicle is setup properly to your camper, flipping your axles shouldn't have much of an effect on towing. Several manufacturers actually have their camper axles flipped straight from the factory. Have you ever seen the Starcraft Launch Extreme campers? Those babies have flipped axles and have excellent ground clearance! If it was unsafe to tow a camper with flipped axles, I don't think manufacturers would be mass producing campers that way. One thing I have to say is I don't regret flipping my axles at all! It is a huge relief to drive around and not worry about my dump tanks bottoming out on a dip! Good luck with whatever way you choose to go.

[@7blueblaze]

Colorado Camperman thanks

[@lifehappened8216]

Great job. Yery nice video, you showed and explained everything nicely. thanks.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

You're welcome, thank you for watching!

[@DSCKy]

Your title is misleading. :) I'm glad you did it the right way... moving the springs from under to over with new spring perches. Some people actually do just flip the axles upside down... which is not a very good way to do it unless the axle is a straight tube.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+DSCKy Good call, everyone always call it "flipping" your axles even though you're not supposed to. Any suggestions for the title? Luckily when I did this the guy that helped me had already done this on 4 or 5 other campers, otherwise I just may have flipped the axles upside down. Thanks for watching.

[@davidcolinstillman5585]

DOES THAT CHANGE YOUR CENTER OF GRAVITY ON THE RV?

[@Ryan.Willis]

Physics says Yes.

[@tcb069]

good video & great info on diy

[@ColoradoCamperman]

The Off Grid Prepper Thank you!

[@wanderlust101]

Nice job!!

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Thanks! It was an excellent upgrade and we are glad we did it!

[@sleim754]

Good Vid. Knowing how cheap the companies are that build these things, As long as you went to this much trouble, I believe that I would have purchased heavier axles that would have allowed me to put "F" graded truck/trailer tires. The larger tires will run cooler and will carry more weight.

[@jimlynch2190]

McKay Sleight when you move up from 3500 it changes to 6 lug wheels. I would do it but too expensive

[@themanthelegend7048]

This is called spring over axle conversion. You dramatically change your flip radius doing this though.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Yep, it is called that as well. Thanks for watching

[@jimsmith9916]

I don't see the need to weld those on. the break system possibly? why not just flip it upside down and rebuild it

[@hondaghandi]

The only thing I can think of is the orientation of the brakes. But that is easily fixed as well by pulling the backing plates off and rotating them 180 degrees. Im also not seeing the need for welding on a new perch. So many opportunities to misalign the axle that way.

[@rsebrin1]

P Mason is absolutely correct. It seems simple but the bow or bend in the axle is required for camber alignment. You have to drop axle weld new perch on exact opposite side, reattach the shackle bolts and mount axle to under the spring pack.

[@cclev1967]

P Mason I was wondering why a new perch also, thanks for answering. I learned something new today.

[@billjohnson3388]

thanks for the info o was wonder the same

[@martinhall1295]

Ok, I just have a little 900 pound Pop Up Tent trailer, The axel looks straight as an arrow and I have no brake system on it. Would it really matter if I just turn the axel over and use the existing spacers?

[@sharonhinrichsen5684]

Can you flip from one axle to two axles?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Sorry I don't understand your question, can you rephrase it?

[@roberts9279]

Great instruction. Thanks!

[@ColoradoCamperman]

You're welcome, thanks for watching.

[@serafinsilva1055]

Can't you simply rotate the axle 180 deg instead of welding new pads on?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+Serafin Silva There is a bow/arch in your axle and if you actually flipped the axles, the bow would be facing the opposite way.

[@serafinsilva1055]

+Colorado Cameraman Thanks. Good to know.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

+Serafin Silva You're welcome!

[@JSchrumm]

+Serafin Silva I was going to ask the same question, I have seen guys just flip their axels, I guess they did it wrong.

[@JSchrumm]

***** That and the brake pads would be in the wrong position.

[@hilbillydan2679]

Why flip the shackle??

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Are you talking about at 8:57? They were designed to go that way on our camper. Maybe your trailer is different?

[@FJ80Coop]

And just wait until the high cross winds hit the side of the trailer while traveling,and watch the camper lean,and flip onto its side so much easier...Better hang on tightly if you;re going to travel in windy areas with a lifted trailer...You will also be getting more air hitting the front of the camper as it sits higher now getting into the dirty air coming over the trucks cab causing more drag than previously...Plus you will need an additional 5"or so of block to go under each leveling jack as well as possibly needing an additional step if anyone has step climbing issues..

[@ColoradoCamperman]

FJ80Coop Speaking from my experience, I have already driven almost 1,000 miles in wind speeds up to 35-40mph while driving 75-80mph. I haven't noticed a bit of difference at all while towing. MPG hasn't changed either. I have a long bed, 1 ton diesel, and use stabilizer bars. I built an additional step into the camper and bring 3 tubs of wood blocks for my jacks (which I brought with us prior to the lift because we go dispersed camping a lot). Talk to anyone that has done this to their camper and they will tell you the same thing.

[@oldtimer4567]

It's not an axle "flip". It's a "spring over" axle conversion.

[@servalferretraficante4016]

Flip is just the slang team for it

[@russellargue2721]

A flip is when you just take the axles and mount them underneath the spring upside down using the same spring perch. This is a conversion, which is a more correct way to do it than a flip.

[@michaelheinen8526]

couldn't u just add a more arched spring,just an idea

[@dannygonzales2528]

Is that D.O.T approval

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Flipping the axles is similar to lifting or altering the suspension on your vehicle. When guys do that to their vehicles they do not need approval ( at least that I'm aware of but I am not a lawyer), so I can't imagine that you would need approval for a trailer.

[@raywhyte7916]

Note: A Camper has no wheels, it fits in the back of a pickup truck. A class A and B has a motor, and an RV pulled behind a vehicle is called a Travel Trailer. Nice job on the video but lacked detail on actual work required to do this project.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Ray Whyte Yeah, I agree I could have had more detailed videos, I had intended too. At the time I thought I was taking a bunch of videos. When I went to edit the videos, I realized I didn't take as much as I thought. I did the best I could do with the amount of footage that I took. If I do this project again, I will take more videos and be more detailed in the steps. Thanks for watching.

[@mkleyn99]

Why couldn’t you just roll the axle and have the perch that was on the bottom, now be on top? Instead of welding on a new one?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

All trailer axles have a curve to them, that way when it is loaded down with weight, the axle will be flat or slightly curved. When you actually flip the axle like you talking about, that curve is going the wrong way. Thanks for watching.

[@randyb3347]

Why not actually flip the axle so the perches are on top? That way you don't have to weld on new ones?

[@ColoradoCamperman]

Good question, there should be a natural bow to your axle (there was on our camper at least). If you actually flip them, this bow will be upside down which is not the way the axle was designed for. Hopefully that makes sense. If there is no bow in your axle, you could probably go the route you're talking about. Thanks for watching.

[@scottpowell6145]

Thank you. I had trouble in the past just like that.

[@OldDunollieman]

I hope you informed your insurance company of the axle mods/ otherwise your insurance policy is null and void.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

I'll look into that, thanks for the tip and watching.

[@jamesbondaygee]

I don't know if they're not designed that way seems rather dangerous.

[@ColoradoCamperman]

If you go to an RV dealer and look at the new campers, it's probably a 50/50 split on how they come from the factory (I think they call it axle overslung and underslung). It's been 6 years since I did that and no issues. Thanks for watching.