It's good you got the other spring fixed now. Leaf spring trailers are so much easier to do a bush fix with too if they do fail. I had a Torflex axle fail and there was nothing I could do. One assembly had worked it's way out of the axle tube probably 6 or 8 inches so the tire was sticking way out. I was afraid of it coming completely off if I drove it. Talk about a hazard to everyone else on the road. I slowly crawled back into town on the shoulder with my 4 way flashers on. What a day. I had to wait a week in a small town for the shop to get a complete replacement axle. Ya I'm 100% for leaf spring axles.
That's exactly what I'm afraid of happening! I almost went with torsion arm suspension, but the first shop, who could have sold me that product if they wanted to, talked me out of it.
A leaf spring will only break on the up motion when bouncing. Leaf springs do get work harden with time and will take a set. We use to get leaf springs re-arched on our Chevy work pickups back in the 80's, when we carried fuel and tools in our 1 ton pickups working on logging jobs. I don't think anyone will re-arch leaf springs today because of liability. A person can add springs, if the weight calls for it. Another great video, always click on them when posted..Thanks for sharing :)
It’s spring time in Montana 17 below I have an older trailer I just bought getting ready I should look into springs it’s a 1981 hasn’t been used for a long time I’m the second owner. Have to get a vehicle to tow it with. Truly like your videos you and your wife make a great traveling team
I have followed you for quite some time. Info like you provide is priceless for those of us getting ready to try the nomad life. Thanks for all the extra info you provided to me.👍
Thank you for all the information. All things I needed to know if I go with a trailer in my nomad future.You and Linda are awesome! How great that Mr. Swain contacted you, good man! Thanks again, your channel is invaluable and inspiring!
I had a leaf spring break on my 62 Fairlane and replaced it, but a few months later the same spring broke again! My spring shop replaced it no charge and upgraded my original 3 leaves to 4.
Glad u got that replaced. I was wondering about it after watching the broken spring video. Spring is in the air here in Az. But, now the windy season begins as temps heat up at lower elevations and are still cool in the northern elevations where we live at 5000’.i am sure u are itching to go camping. So are we. Our season begins the last week of March in Southern Az. Then, off to Ca and Or. as long as enough places are open by late May. Happy Trails!
Good information. Usually a tandem axle trailer is longer and heavier so I can understand why you chose the single axle not only for the more maneuverability but also the weight since you are towing with a smaller SUV. I have never understood why they don’t put shocks on trailers but there must be some reason. Wow it’s cold there. We haven’t even made it below 10 degrees this winter in this part of Idaho. Getting ready to take my first camping trip down into Hells Canyon in a few days. Good time to go in the canyon before it gets too hot and the rattlers start coming out.
@@gonagain we took the jet boat ride below Hells Canyon dam. The smoke gave it kind of an eerie feel but beautiful. We saw all kinds of wildlife. Lots of bears deer and elk. There are several good boondocking places to camp. Love the Canyon.
Hello! I saw the Casino sign and super 1 and I was shocked lol. I'm looking into an axle flip kit for my trailer. After seeing the business you took your trailer too I figured I would start at the same place.
I can’t count the number of trailers I’ve owned since the early 1970’s. One car hauler and a small (17’) TT I used for hunting had torsion suspension. They do ride nice but after having an issue with the I decided to adhere to the KISS principle, AKA leaf spring suspension. Good vid as usual.
I always wondered about rubber torsion springs like in a Dexter axel in very cold. But we don’t normally see cold like that. Before we got our single axel Jayco Hummingbird, we bought a 13’ Scamp from my mom. Old! There’s really no spring left in that axel, or very little. Thanks for the video! Y’all be safe out there!
Springs will most often give you more ground clearance. I have taken a leaf spring where the axle is above the spring and reversed it so the axle is below it. I gained not only the thickness of the spring, but also the thickness of the axle. So maybe a 4" lift.
I am thinking about doing the same with my trailer, mostly because when I drive over a dip in the road, my trailer jack hits the road in that situation. Any regrets or advice?
@@hargieboo If the jack is in the front, it is more about the height of your hitch or vehicle. You can install a swing away jack. or a trailer hitch that has more rise. If you were to raise the suspension of the trailer, you may need this anyway to keep the trailer level.
@@hargieboo If the trailer has electric brakes, you want to be sure you can get them to operate and adjust correctly once you flip and spin the axle when you undermount it. You may have to swap the left and right brake assembly to accomplish this. If no electric brake, no problem
Glad to see you finally got this done, but it did make for an " INTERESTING" vid when the other one broke down. You can get the other one ( spare ) checked out to see if you have any cracks in it or stress fractures that mite not be visible to the naked eye, there's different ways of doing this, just a thought. Or since your GTG for another 100k not worry about it, an just keep the spare onboard, JIC. Thx for the vid
Since you said that you need to change leaf springs every couple of years don't forget to change the leaf springs on the back of your GMC because it also has leaf springs ;)
Great info. I am getting ready to purchase a 6X10 and only want a single axle. People keep telling me to go with a 6X12 and tandem but we don't need that 2 extra feet. The info on the shocks and rubber bumpers is also great. Thanks for the videos - I truly love seeing you and Linda enjoying life and traveling!
Any, people are right. You need more length. I have a 6x12 single axle and it is really easy to run out of room when building for two people. If you want it to truly be more than a “ tin tent” you should get more length. I can’t tell you how many times I have regretted not getting a 7x14 tandem. You can thank me later.😊
@@hgj2019 it will likely be me most of the time. I need it big enough to do some hauling (nothing too large or heavy) and something I can secure electric bikes, have a bed, cook, heat and some power. I have a 1/2 ton truck so I don’t want to drag it down. Thanks for the advice - if I end up kicking myself you can say I told you so...lol
@@amyslaughter8788 take a close look at your needs. Figure out exactly what this should be for you. Your physical size is an issue. My wife is almost 6' tall, and I am over 6', so i can't orient the bed cross-wise. I built a small cabinet with sink, stove, and drawers. A bathroom beyond a porta-porty is out of the question. I once wanted a fold-up bed so I could still carry a quad or bikes, but I've given up on that. Two more feet in length and another foot in width would make a HUGE difference for us. Tandem axles would also be better, as you can "limp" along with one flat if you still have 3 inflated. I've dragged my trailer literally thousands of miles, and used it as both "tin tent" and a slightly more developed camper. Try to keep an open mind about this before you commit. The difference in price now will be small compared to the cost of doing it all over again. If your 1/2 ton is a "full size" you should not have any problems with the greater weight of the linger camper. Tandem axles will actually help with tongue weight. I absolutely agree about a longer trailer. In my opinion a 16 footer would be the absolute max I would consider. It is just too hard to maneuver a longer rig. Good luck, and always remember that enjoying this experience should be your #1 goal.
@@hgj2019 great advice. My truck is a full size and should be fine. I fish a lot, love to camp, and generally be outdoors. I want to be as nimble as possible... I’m going to do a physical layout with cardboard - that will be eye opening. Everything works on paper - lol.
The standard axle is probably sufficient, but it is fun to try to find a better or perfect system. I have been looking at Tembrin axle-less suspension. No axle to hang up like happened to you. I saw a video about a convoy of all terrain campers traveling in the backcountry of Utah. All the trailers were from the same brand and had fancy Australian swingarm independent suspensions. Some of the trailers had singles, and some had tandems. They all performed well, but the tandems were much smoother on the trails. I guess with tandems, half the weight is carried by the front and back axle. As the lead axle goes over a bump or dip, only half of the force is transmitted into the trailer. Same thing as the rear axle negotiates obstacle. I was surprised by how much better the tandems were off-road, and was expecting the singles to rule the day. There are so many tradeoffs and different factors. Someone (me) could drive themselves crazy trying to get the 'best setup'. For some people, the tinkering and optimizing is the enjoyable part. If you just want to get out and explore, just about anything will work (I think you said something along these lines in other videos).
The tandems definitely do ride smoother and don't bounce like a single does. My only concern is what happens when a torsion arm axle does break (and they do), then the difficulty of obtaining parts comes into play. If it wasn't for that one problem I would go that route.
@@gonagain update - I took my trailer to the Baja and did a decent amount of offroading all the way down to Cabo San Lucas. I broke my left leaf spring and was able to find a replacement in a small town and repair it myself. Two days after repairing the left side, the right side broke. Again, I found replacment parts and replaced it myself. Having universally available parts sure made repairs easy!!!!
Little tip for hitching up the ball to the receiver..........I paint my receiver yellow so it makes for easier to see as you back up with a camera or even the old way with a mirror on the tailgate. Happy Camping
Oh my goodness.. did I ever learn something with this video👍👍 thanks again you are just a wealth of knowledge...you are my go to for any issues I have with my trailer and some truck issues LOL thank you so much for what you two do and bring to this channel. I give it 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟...it's a five-star Channel 😉
I always enjoy your videos. The relationship you and Linda have is very heartwarming. I had such a relationship with my wonderful wife, but she died a number of years ago. I'm 84 now and live with two dogs who are my best friends. I traveled a lot in the Infantry many years ago, and also lived in a Volkswagon 1956 window van for two years while I looked for this house that I've now lived in for the past 46 years. I'm in a very remote area of the Southern California Mojave desert. It was 75 here today as I worked outside with my two dogs putting down pavers. I have no neighbors, and have no desire to travel anywhere....but I do enjoy your travels. Take care my friend, and please always remember that the most savage of predators is the two legged kind. God bless TH-cam, Amazon, and modern Technology.
Thank you for watching, David. It sounds like you have a very peaceful place. And isn't technology (some of it, anyway) wonderful? We appreciate you taking the time to watch our videos.
Well done you 2 ! Fit for fight ! Since I broke my leafspring I have investigated the market for leafsprings and beware there are quality grades of these ! Dont get the cheapest ones !!! Check with the manufacturer of small high end trucks is my advice ! Also I put in pneumatic air bellow jacks both sides of the axle with easy adjustable pressure using small tiny tiny tire inflator or even a bicycle pump with a pressure gauge ! ( they are sitting beteeen the axle and the frame beam !
Kinda surprised on your first comment about leaf springs. They are on the back of probably 90% of all pickups and typically don't break after way more than 100K miles. Cheap manufacturing of trailers and probably their leaf springs, well that's another story, but not indicative of a bad design as a whole.
@@gonagain Agreed, everything breaks eventually, sorry I must have misunderstood you, as I thought you were saying that leaf springs were an interior design. Honestly if trailer manufactures would use a more quality spring, like vehicles, they wouldn't have broken at 100K. Unless of course they are used outside their specifications.
another great video. speaking of great videos where are all of your black powder videos ? Can't seem to find any and I need the reloading help they provided. Have fun , stay safe.
I agree with everything you said with one exception. I’ve never seen a torsion spring axle break. They do get weak and the trailer sits lower and lower over time and not much suspension travel either but never seen one fail. Just my opinion.
Interesting. I have two single axle trailers, both rated at approx 2000lbs, one has the tent trailer, Bonair is equipped with the flexiride torsion axles and the other with springs. Yesterday I bought new tires and rims for the tent trailer and found that although they fit on the new tent trailer ( moved from 5.80x12 to 13 inch to get a tire rated for 80 mph and above instead of 60 mph) but anyways there is not enough clearance. I was pleasantly surprised to see that in order to adjust the height of the flexiride torsion system to make room for the massive tire size change or 1.8 inch top and bottom is as simple as undoing a bolt , pulling it off a spline and moving it down a few spline points. I will let you know how that goes today but it looks promising. As for the toughness of the flexiride system I think it will be great for the mountains as they use them on most military trailer up to 5000 lbs.
@@gonagain I was just mentioning that to my wife. We brought it back on the highway for about 2.5 hours and I was driving like I always do before I knew those tires are only good for 60 mph and probably going about 70 most of the way and it was pulling like a dream. I have a class one and have pulled a lot of crap here and there but this suspension is smooth. Anyways the highway was being repaved and we hit a few 4 inch drops and rises here and there that would have launched my other utility trailer 3 ft but this thing was awesome. It rained all day yesterday bit Im going to try today to adjust it.
I agree if you replace one spring always replace the other side. I definitely like leaf much better then torsion axel. We have a 5x9 V nose trailer maybe 10,000 miles maybe I should at least check them out. I just recently got new tires couldn’t believe they were that bad already.
Shop Art, be sure to always have your trailer tires balanced. Too many tire shops think that trailer tires don't need it, but they scallop like heck if it isn't done.
The puck lock on my trailer door is made by Master and is very good for the money. Here it is on my Amazon Associates page. The price to you is the same: amzn.to/3l7IEAD
If available, is it recommended to upgrade the factory springs to heavier duty..? Today, 74 degrees in Henderson, NV..!! BTW, if you continue to provide great info like this, I might just send another $50.00...!!!! LOL!
You can feel free to do that anytime you like!!! I asked about adding an extra spring but was told it would make the ride too stiff and to stay with stock.
@@gonagain I didn't complete the video when I asked about the spring.. I'm trying to prime the pump by dropping hint bombs to the boob toobers..!! LOL! You and the 'Luvely Linda', be warm and well..!
I never even open that back door anymore. I guess if I were loading an atv or motorcycle I'd want this ramp on the back, but barn doors would be easier for us now so that we could get at things stored under the bunk. We could also put an outside kitchen area in the back if we had barn doors.
That's a Proven Industries Wheel Boot. They're not cheap, but they do work if you combine them with all antitheft lugnuts on that same side. I use two different types of those lugnuts just to be more secure.
make sure you change your tires every 4 to 5 years. A blow out is very damaging. Spray liquid lithium grease between spring leafs 2 times a year helps. I jack up each wheel to get space between leafs before i spray them. Keeps noise and surface tension between leafs at bay.
Okay I look through your list of things you have but I don't see any place where you mention your wheel lock I have a single axle trailer also and I like to have a wheel lock like that looks like it goes through the rim or something
I would think shock mount brackets could be welded onto the axle and a trailer bracket be fabricated. I think the axle is probably a small box channel and not rigid enough though . I had torsion bars in front of my old62 Chev pickup and they worked. Tightening them gave more lift easily. My tool trailer is the smallest tandem axle Interstate and been happy with it's performance. You guys look like you need to warm up again. Stormy here in Seatroit. Take care...
Torsion axles work just AS HARD as leaf springs ! The hard rubber insert in the axle can only be 'Twisted' so many times and then they come apart and QUIT working !
If they lubricate/grease not spray!!! all threads under nuts and the bolts going through eyes of bushings nothing will be stuck for decades. Anything sprayed or not greased will succumb to the weather. I'm usually on the wrong end of STUCKS... and most are not my vehicles!
Good question. I have never had a problem with ground clearance with the straight axle however, if you are planning on some serious offroading, then the drop axle might be ok. I just like having the availability of parts that the leaf spring axle provides because if you break a torsion arm axle you may be stranded for a long time waiting for parts to arrive.
@@gonagain Most trailers I see have a 4" drop axle making it 4" lower to the ground compared to the straight axle. Looks like only way to get a straight axle is custom order in my area. I will be sticking to a leaf spring due to the parts availability you mention.
Well, when I watched the broken leaf spring video. I told my wife They should of replaced the other side! Oh well! I don’t have clothes to live in that cold 🥶!! Yuck
That's galso going to depend the load rating of your trailer's floor. How far apart are the floor frames and how thick is the flooring? This is something the manufacturer would be able to tell you. My trailer has the floor beams on 24" centers and an upgrade would be 16" centers, just as an example. Then there's the rating on the tires as well. I would think for that kind of load (4000+ lbs.) you may want a tandem axle.
Linda we always knew you were pulling the heavy load......maybe you could install one of those equalizers.......great video guys and head South....17 below is for people who live in igloos
Hi Rick, Hi Linda. Gee, that Temp. Reading was So Inviting I expected to see you in Shorts & Flip Flops. I DON'T know how you all do it???--Regarding the Springs, I had the dealer 'Flip' them Upside-Down, plus Exchanged the tires for Something a Tad Taller. But Now, my Rig Looks 40ft. Tall. Almost Rediculous and wondering if I shot myself in the foot?? One thing for certain is: My gas mileage will Drop to Below 50% with all the Wind Resistance. But I'm Not Complaining, only Explaining. Still, YIKES. 🤔 70°+ TODAY. The Southern-Tundra is 'Calling You' 🤗🌞🌝👍
@@gonagain It Actually got up to 77 yesterday. It's called the 'January or February Thaw'. It happens once every winter. Spring brings Rain & Cold. It's Not Over just yet.☹
I was re watching some of your old videos. Was episode about Walmart throwing out spoiled food . On that note. All the Christmas extra stuff at a Sam’s club that doesn’t sell gets tossed out as well! We are such a wasteful nation! 🥴
I bought mine used for a good price and I don't know what they are new. I didn't get aluminum because it was lighter, because it doesn't make enough difference for gas mileage, but because it doesn't require yearly painting to keep it from rusting, so I think the extra cost is well worth it.
I just want to say If you are breaking springs I would double check your load to make sure you are not overloading your rig. ( just saying .) maybe get it reweighed. Cause we all add stuff into our trailer and after time we forget about the extra weight we might be adding.
Thanks Jay. Actually my trailer is just about empty with only our bunks and personal gear, but we do travel a lot of rough roads. What broke the spring was snagging the tire on a tree stump.
That old leaf spring, you could make some knives with it. I was just wondering, how often do you pack the wheel bearings on you camper. Good video as always. You need to be back in Arizona where it is warm. Tell Linda to take a coffee break take care and stay safe.
Hello WR! I have replaced the wheel bearings once (the first ones were Chinese) and I installed "Bearing Buddies" so that I could just use a grease gun to lube them since (about twice a year). But this spring I'm replacing them just to be safe. That will be about 5 years since I actually took them off.
I called two fellows i know who own cargo trailers who use them as RV units for Elk hunting and Deer hunting and they beat those logging roads all the time but i wanted to find out if they broke a leaf spring or two , nope and no one has heard of it .. Leaf springs are in constant motion which is true, that's the job of a spring , movement .. But if one does break that's all it means one broke , replace it and on you go.. But both springs breaking ? never in my 77 years have i heard of that .. Are you sure the springs weren't made in Iran or China ? That doesn't say much for quality if that's the case ...I know one dealer here and maybe i'll give him a call to see what he knows but pretty good bet he won't say anything as he sells the cargo trailers .. But still it's good to know and useful information ...I'll hang on to this one and keep asking fellows who own them as i'm looking to buy a cargo trailer this spring sometime ...
@@gonagain Good insurance as you lost one spring .. I called one more fellow i know to ask him about his cargo trailer and throughout the years he has beat it up and down every logging road for hunting seasons , he said no broken spring , he said it should have broke , it's designed to flex .. No one here so far has lost a spring .. Could very well have had a defect in the spring ..
@@gonagain I have never seen one setup with shocks or rubber bumper stops , just never have , but that doesn't mean an aftermarket company doesn't make a kit for cargo trailers , that i do not know ..But it is interesting though ..
So, about the only thing you didn't put on the drop-down list is the locking wheel chock. Actually, 4 wheel drive can be used to stop a vehicle. Slam on the brakes, put it in reverse, stomp on the gas. I used that trick several times in my youth when driving in bad conditions. About the same time period, I used to slam on the brakes, put it in reverse, crank the wheel, and go down the road backwards in the snow. One time I did it and I was staring at a police car behind me. I spun it around kept driving. He must have thought I lost control as he didn't stop me. Might be a little tough with a trailer. Actually, I .....
Interesting way to get stopped and beats the Flintstone method of dragging your feet! The wheel lock is from Proven Industries, not cheap but good insurance never is.
Thank you, I'll look them up. I accidentally learned the stomp, reverse, gas thing as I was starting over an embankment at 20mph on an icy road. I kept from going over. Used it a couple of times after that. You have to be quick and decisive.
WHO EVER TOLD YOU THAT SHOCKS ON A RV TRAILER DO NO GOOD SHOULD CHECK HIS OR HER FACTS. SHOCKS DO TWO THINGS, ONE, THEY HELP IN CONTROLING HOW THE TRAILER REACTS TO ROAD CONDITIONS. IT HELPS ELEMINATE SWAY BY STOPPING THE TOP OF THE TRAILER FROM ROLLING. ALSO SHOCKS HELP TAKE THE IMPACT OUT OF POT HOLES AND BAD ROAD CONDITIONS WHICH CAUSE SPRINGS TO BRAKE AND OTHER COMPONENTS LIKE BEARINGS AND SHAKLES TO WEAR OUT. GO TO A HIGH END RV SALES LOCATION AND LOOK UNDER THEIR TRAILERS.
Hello Paul, the point of the video is not to get torsion axles because of their cost and difficulty of finding replacement parts when they break. I'm not promoting torsion axles, just the opposite.
I'm so glad you mentioned the shocks and rubber bumpers thing and why they aren't recommended. That's very useful information!
Love the sound of boots crunching cold snow. ❄️
It's good you got the other spring fixed now. Leaf spring trailers are so much easier to do a bush fix with too if they do fail. I had a Torflex axle fail and there was nothing I could do. One assembly had worked it's way out of the axle tube probably 6 or 8 inches so the tire was sticking way out. I was afraid of it coming completely off if I drove it. Talk about a hazard to everyone else on the road. I slowly crawled back into town on the shoulder with my 4 way flashers on. What a day. I had to wait a week in a small town for the shop to get a complete replacement axle. Ya I'm 100% for leaf spring axles.
That's exactly what I'm afraid of happening! I almost went with torsion arm suspension, but the first shop, who could have sold me that product if they wanted to, talked me out of it.
A leaf spring will only break on the up motion when bouncing. Leaf springs do get work harden with time and will take a set. We use to get leaf springs re-arched on our Chevy work pickups back in the 80's, when we carried fuel and tools in our 1 ton pickups working on logging jobs. I don't think anyone will re-arch leaf springs today because of liability. A person can add springs, if the weight calls for it. Another great video, always click on them when posted..Thanks for sharing :)
Thank you for sharing that knowledge!
Very informative video. Thanks. I also chose single axle trailer.
Always best to do maintenance on the coldest days. Makes you remember that you did it
Thanks for sharing this video, you funny and interesting,informative guy.
Fresh take on a new spring trip.
It’s spring time in Montana 17 below I have an older trailer I just bought getting ready I should look into springs it’s a 1981 hasn’t been used for a long time I’m the second owner. Have to get a vehicle to tow it with. Truly like your videos you and your wife make a great traveling team
Thanks for watching, FrankG. And thank you for the kind comment.
I have followed you for quite some time. Info like you provide is priceless for those of us getting ready to try the nomad life. Thanks for all the extra info you provided to me.👍
Thank you for watching!
A VanLifer from Pacific Northwest would like to thank you and your family for sharing your adventures.
Awesome, thank you ChadSolo!
"Head to the beach" WOW! Y'all have white sand, everywhere!!! Cajun :-)))
Great video!
Thanks!
I’ve had both torsion and leaf I’ll take leaf over torsion for longevity. 👊👍😎
That worked out pretty good that a subscriber reached out to you. You should put a link to that companies website. Thanks for the video
Will do Mark, thanks.
Thank you for all the information. All things I needed to know if I go with a trailer in my nomad future.You and Linda are awesome! How great that Mr. Swain contacted you, good man! Thanks again, your channel is invaluable and inspiring!
I had a leaf spring break on my 62 Fairlane and replaced it, but a few months later the same spring broke again! My spring shop replaced it no charge and upgraded my original 3 leaves to 4.
That was nice of them to do that. It sounds like you needed the heavier set-up.
Glad u got that replaced. I was wondering about it after watching the broken spring video. Spring is in the air here in Az. But, now the windy season begins as temps heat up at lower elevations and are still cool in the northern elevations where we live at 5000’.i am sure u are itching to go camping. So are we. Our season begins the last week of March in Southern Az. Then, off to Ca and Or. as long as enough places are open by late May. Happy Trails!
Thanks for that information Chuck, we'll be heading back there soon for the bloom.
I added an extra leaf in my new sets. No problems this year yet.
Thanks for the video😊
don't know how this popped up on my screen, but glad for it. agree. springs are much better for off road, and single is better than tandem axles.
Thanks for watching! If you enjoyed this one, we have lots more videos you can watch.
Another great video! I’d add that if NEEDED you can also limp down the road with one flat on tandem axle trailers. The operative word being “LIMP”.😊
Good information. Usually a tandem axle trailer is longer and heavier so I can understand why you chose the single axle not only for the more maneuverability but also the weight since you are towing with a smaller SUV. I have never understood why they don’t put shocks on trailers but there must be some reason. Wow it’s cold there. We haven’t even made it below 10 degrees this winter in this part of Idaho. Getting ready to take my first camping trip down into Hells Canyon in a few days. Good time to go in the canyon before it gets too hot and the rattlers start coming out.
That is such a beautiful area! We were there last spring and loved it, other than the smoke at the time.
@@gonagain we took the jet boat ride below Hells Canyon dam. The smoke gave it kind of an eerie feel but beautiful. We saw all kinds of wildlife. Lots of bears deer and elk. There are several good boondocking places to camp. Love the Canyon.
Glad you made this video I am getting ready to buy new springs for my rig.
Great information. Learning something new each time I watch your videos. 👍👍. Peace
I just did a enclosed camper conversion last week and I live in the same city as you. I recognized the scenery 😁
Well, hello neighbor!
Hello! I saw the Casino sign and super 1 and I was shocked lol. I'm looking into an axle flip kit for my trailer. After seeing the business you took your trailer too I figured I would start at the same place.
I can’t count the number of trailers I’ve owned since the early 1970’s. One car hauler and a small (17’) TT I used for hunting had torsion suspension. They do ride nice but after having an issue with the I decided to adhere to the KISS principle, AKA leaf spring suspension. Good vid as usual.
Good relevant information to consider. Thx for posting.
You bet.
With all the off roading you guys do you might want to consider Greasable poly bushings for the Spring eyes next time they need replacement.
I had to look that up. Yes, that's a good idea!
@@gonagain Another good idea is military wrapped leaf Springs the 2nd leaf wraps around the Spring eye in case the main leaf breaks as a fail safe.
I always wondered about rubber torsion springs like in a Dexter axel in very cold. But we don’t normally see cold like that. Before we got our single axel Jayco Hummingbird, we bought a 13’ Scamp from my mom. Old! There’s really no spring left in that axel, or very little. Thanks for the video! Y’all be safe out there!
Great info, thank you for sharing this. It really helps in choosing a suspension.
Good video Rick.
JT
Thanks JT.
Spring time in the Rockies!
OK, I will see myself out...
I've been eyeing those Stealth enclosed Trailers. Very nice!!
Ps ... Thank You
Springs will most often give you more ground clearance. I have taken a leaf spring where the axle is above the spring and reversed it so the axle is below it. I gained not only the thickness of the spring, but also the thickness of the axle. So maybe a 4" lift.
I am thinking about doing the same with my trailer, mostly because when I drive over a dip in the road, my trailer jack hits the road in that situation. Any regrets or advice?
@@hargieboo If the jack is in the front, it is more about the height of your hitch or vehicle. You can install a swing away jack. or a trailer hitch that has more rise. If you were to raise the suspension of the trailer, you may need this anyway to keep the trailer level.
@@hargieboo If the trailer has electric brakes, you want to be sure you can get them to operate and adjust correctly once you flip and spin the axle when you undermount it. You may have to swap the left and right brake assembly to accomplish this. If no electric brake, no problem
Glad to see you finally got this done, but it did make for an " INTERESTING" vid when the other one broke down. You can get the other one ( spare ) checked out to see if you have any cracks in it or stress fractures that mite not be visible to the naked eye, there's different ways of doing this, just a thought. Or since your GTG for another 100k not worry about it, an just keep the spare onboard, JIC. Thx for the vid
Since you said that you need to change leaf springs every couple of years don't forget to change the leaf springs on the back of your GMC because it also has leaf springs ;)
I'm sure glad we didn't have any where near those cold temps this year. Very little snow too. Great info, again. Thanks for sharing.
-17°C that is a commitment to vlogging . Great info. Keep safe. Regards from U.K. AJ
Another great video, keep them coming!
I like your large Montana wall map, just wondering they have one for Maryland.
Here you go! www.ravenmaps.com/md-vi-del-elevation-tints.html
@@gonagain You are awesome. Thanks!
Gotta say you have one super clean looking Yukon
Not at the moment, Patrick! Winter in Montana is kinda messy.
In Canada we use maple leaf springs ;)
I love the squeak of snow when it's really cold.
As long as the wind isn't blowing!
Great info. I am getting ready to purchase a 6X10 and only want a single axle. People keep telling me to go with a 6X12 and tandem but we don't need that 2 extra feet. The info on the shocks and rubber bumpers is also great. Thanks for the videos - I truly love seeing you and Linda enjoying life and traveling!
Hi Amy, just keep good tires on it, replace them before they need it and you'll be fine.
Any, people are right. You need more length. I have a 6x12 single axle and it is really easy to run out of room when building for two people. If you want it to truly be more than a “ tin tent” you should get more length. I can’t tell you how many times I have regretted not getting a 7x14 tandem. You can thank me later.😊
@@hgj2019 it will likely be me most of the time. I need it big enough to do some hauling (nothing too large or heavy) and something I can secure electric bikes, have a bed, cook, heat and some power. I have a 1/2 ton truck so I don’t want to drag it down. Thanks for the advice - if I end up kicking myself you can say I told you so...lol
@@amyslaughter8788 take a close look at your needs. Figure out exactly what this should be for you. Your physical size is an issue. My wife is almost 6' tall, and I am over 6', so i can't orient the bed cross-wise. I built a small cabinet with sink, stove, and drawers. A bathroom beyond a porta-porty is out of the question. I once wanted a fold-up bed so I could still carry a quad or bikes, but I've given up on that. Two more feet in length and another foot in width would make a HUGE difference for us. Tandem axles would also be better, as you can "limp" along with one flat if you still have 3 inflated. I've dragged my trailer literally thousands of miles, and used it as both "tin tent" and a slightly more developed camper. Try to keep an open mind about this before you commit. The difference in price now will be small compared to the cost of doing it all over again. If your 1/2 ton is a "full size" you should not have any problems with the greater weight of the linger camper. Tandem axles will actually help with tongue weight. I absolutely agree about a longer trailer. In my opinion a 16 footer would be the absolute max I would consider. It is just too hard to maneuver a longer rig. Good luck, and always remember that enjoying this experience should be your #1 goal.
@@hgj2019 great advice. My truck is a full size and should be fine. I fish a lot, love to camp, and generally be outdoors. I want to be as nimble as possible... I’m going to do a physical layout with cardboard - that will be eye opening. Everything works on paper - lol.
I'm always enthralled with whatever is going on with you two...and great information. Love it! Thank you!
We're happy to be doing this and that you enjoy our escapades. Thanks Soulful!
The standard axle is probably sufficient, but it is fun to try to find a better or perfect system. I have been looking at Tembrin axle-less suspension. No axle to hang up like happened to you.
I saw a video about a convoy of all terrain campers traveling in the backcountry of Utah. All the trailers were from the same brand and had fancy Australian swingarm independent suspensions. Some of the trailers had singles, and some had tandems. They all performed well, but the tandems were much smoother on the trails. I guess with tandems, half the weight is carried by the front and back axle. As the lead axle goes over a bump or dip, only half of the force is transmitted into the trailer. Same thing as the rear axle negotiates obstacle. I was surprised by how much better the tandems were off-road, and was expecting the singles to rule the day.
There are so many tradeoffs and different factors. Someone (me) could drive themselves crazy trying to get the 'best setup'. For some people, the tinkering and optimizing is the enjoyable part. If you just want to get out and explore, just about anything will work (I think you said something along these lines in other videos).
The tandems definitely do ride smoother and don't bounce like a single does. My only concern is what happens when a torsion arm axle does break (and they do), then the difficulty of obtaining parts comes into play. If it wasn't for that one problem I would go that route.
@@gonagain yes - reparability is something to consider. Cool-factor usually has an inverse relationship with parts and mechanic availability
@@gonagain update - I took my trailer to the Baja and did a decent amount of offroading all the way down to Cabo San Lucas. I broke my left leaf spring and was able to find a replacement in a small town and repair it myself. Two days after repairing the left side, the right side broke. Again, I found replacment parts and replaced it myself. Having universally available parts sure made repairs easy!!!!
Little tip for hitching up the ball to the receiver..........I paint my receiver yellow so it makes for easier to see as you back up with a camera or even the old way with a mirror on the tailgate. Happy Camping
I like that idea because it's hard to see the ball hitch until I get close to it!
Oh my goodness.. did I ever learn something with this video👍👍 thanks again you are just a wealth of knowledge...you are my go to for any issues I have with my trailer and some truck issues LOL thank you so much for what you two do and bring to this channel. I give it 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟...it's a five-star Channel 😉
Thank you for the 5-star rating, Teresa! We do appreciate it.
Got it.
Thanks!
I always enjoy your videos. The relationship you and Linda have is very heartwarming. I had such a relationship with my wonderful wife, but she died a number of years ago. I'm 84 now and live with two dogs who are my best friends. I traveled a lot in the Infantry many years ago, and also lived in a Volkswagon 1956 window van for two years while I looked for this house that I've now lived in for the past 46 years. I'm in a very remote area of the Southern California Mojave desert. It was 75 here today as I worked outside with my two dogs putting down pavers. I have no neighbors, and have no desire to travel anywhere....but I do enjoy your travels. Take care my friend, and please always remember that the most savage of predators is the two legged kind. God bless TH-cam, Amazon, and modern Technology.
Thank you for watching, David. It sounds like you have a very peaceful place. And isn't technology (some of it, anyway) wonderful? We appreciate you taking the time to watch our videos.
Well done you 2 !
Fit for fight !
Since I broke my leafspring I have investigated the market for leafsprings and beware there are quality grades of these ! Dont get the cheapest ones !!! Check with the manufacturer of small high end trucks is my advice ! Also I put in pneumatic air bellow jacks both sides of the axle with easy adjustable pressure using small tiny tiny tire inflator or even a bicycle pump with a pressure gauge !
( they are sitting beteeen the axle and the frame beam !
Thanks Anders, I hadn't heard of using air shocks on these trailers, but I'm going to look into it.
Kinda surprised on your first comment about leaf springs. They are on the back of probably 90% of all pickups and typically don't break after way more than 100K miles. Cheap manufacturing of trailers and probably their leaf springs, well that's another story, but not indicative of a bad design as a whole.
I probably have 100,000 miles on this trailer and it's a Dexter axle and springs. Everything breaks eventually.
@@gonagain Agreed, everything breaks eventually, sorry I must have misunderstood you, as I thought you were saying that leaf springs were an interior design. Honestly if trailer manufactures would use a more quality spring, like vehicles, they wouldn't have broken at 100K. Unless of course they are used outside their specifications.
another great video. speaking of great videos where are all of your black powder videos ? Can't seem to find any and I need the reloading help they provided. Have fun , stay safe.
I had to move them over to Rumble: rumble.com/user/Gonagain
I hope they help!
@@gonagain thanks
I appreciate your information and enjoy all your content, I value your opinion, so glad I subscribed to you.
Thank you for subscribing, Jan! Be sure to enter our contest for an Oupes 600 portable power station, there's a video up that tells you how.
I agree with everything you said with one exception. I’ve never seen a torsion spring axle break. They do get weak and the trailer sits lower and lower over time and not much suspension travel either but never seen one fail. Just my opinion.
Interesting. I have two single axle trailers, both rated at approx 2000lbs, one has the tent trailer, Bonair is equipped with the flexiride torsion axles and the other with springs. Yesterday I bought new tires and rims for the tent trailer and found that although they fit on the new tent trailer ( moved from 5.80x12 to 13 inch to get a tire rated for 80 mph and above instead of 60 mph) but anyways there is not enough clearance. I was pleasantly surprised to see that in order to adjust the height of the flexiride torsion system to make room for the massive tire size change or 1.8 inch top and bottom is as simple as undoing a bolt , pulling it off a spline and moving it down a few spline points. I will let you know how that goes today but it looks promising. As for the toughness of the flexiride system I think it will be great for the mountains as they use them on most military trailer up to 5000 lbs.
They definitely ride better than leaf springs.
@@gonagain I was just mentioning that to my wife. We brought it back on the highway for about 2.5 hours and I was driving like I always do before I knew those tires are only good for 60 mph and probably going about 70 most of the way and it was pulling like a dream. I have a class one and have pulled a lot of crap here and there but this suspension is smooth. Anyways the highway was being repaved and we hit a few 4 inch drops and rises here and there that would have launched my other utility trailer 3 ft but this thing was awesome. It rained all day yesterday bit Im going to try today to adjust it.
Have you done a video on that wheel lock?
I have! th-cam.com/video/3tZNWzdYe34/w-d-xo.html
Brrr. Trailer ready to head south? 💞
Us AND the trailer are ready! Pretty soon.
I agree if you replace one spring always replace the other side. I definitely like leaf much better then torsion axel. We have a 5x9 V nose trailer maybe 10,000 miles maybe I should at least check them out. I just recently got new tires couldn’t believe they were that bad already.
Shop Art, be sure to always have your trailer tires balanced. Too many tire shops think that trailer tires don't need it, but they scallop like heck if it isn't done.
That is what happened to my tires. I’m going to see if they can/will balance them. Thanks for the information I never though of balancing them!!!
great info thank you for all you both do to share ,big hugs from MN
Just my opinion. I have owned 6 different size cargo trailers . All had torsion axles. No leaf springs. Never ever had a issue with any of them . 👍
Good to hear Ralph.
hi ! nice video ! what kind of padlock you use . Just wondering
The puck lock on my trailer door is made by Master and is very good for the money. Here it is on my Amazon Associates page. The price to you is the same: amzn.to/3l7IEAD
I assume u changed both as u recommended in the beginning of the video?
Yep, the first one broke last Fall down in Utah and I just got around to doing the other side here.
Gonagain's Rock 👍🏿😎
If available, is it recommended to upgrade the factory springs to heavier duty..? Today, 74 degrees in Henderson, NV..!! BTW, if you continue to provide great info like this, I might just send another $50.00...!!!! LOL!
You can feel free to do that anytime you like!!! I asked about adding an extra spring but was told it would make the ride too stiff and to stay with stock.
@@gonagain I didn't complete the video when I asked about the spring.. I'm trying to prime the pump by dropping hint bombs to the boob toobers..!! LOL! You and the 'Luvely Linda', be warm and well..!
you prefer ramp or barn doors on the back?
I never even open that back door anymore. I guess if I were loading an atv or motorcycle I'd want this ramp on the back, but barn doors would be easier for us now so that we could get at things stored under the bunk. We could also put an outside kitchen area in the back if we had barn doors.
What was that wheel chock/ lock you removed from the wheel?
That's a Proven Industries Wheel Boot. They're not cheap, but they do work if you combine them with all antitheft lugnuts on that same side. I use two different types of those lugnuts just to be more secure.
make sure you change your tires every 4 to 5 years. A blow out is very damaging. Spray liquid lithium grease between spring leafs 2 times a year helps. I jack up each wheel to get space between leafs before i spray them. Keeps noise and surface tension between leafs at bay.
Great advice!👍
@@philmickey7247 agree. do the best you can. It will definitely help. Pads are best but not very prevalent
Thanks Steve!
Brrrrrrrrrr!!! That cold and snow looks Great!! From Tucson!!! LOL Great info as always, Take Care!
Okay I look through your list of things you have but I don't see any place where you mention your wheel lock I have a single axle trailer also and I like to have a wheel lock like that looks like it goes through the rim or something
Hi Melvin, that one is made by Proven Industries. They're not cheap, but neither is your trailer and the things inside.
@@gonagain thanks I found your TH-cam picture that you did with the real block and I also looked up to you
Like the idea of keeping the old spring for a spare. Broken leaf springs can be made into knife blades.
I would think shock mount brackets could be welded onto the axle and a trailer bracket be fabricated. I think the axle is probably a small box channel and not rigid enough though . I had torsion bars in front of my old62 Chev pickup and they worked. Tightening them gave more lift easily. My tool trailer is the smallest tandem axle Interstate and been happy with it's performance. You guys look like you need to warm up again. Stormy here in Seatroit. Take care...
I'm looking forward to heading south again soon, as long as gas is still affordable.
@@gonagain diesel is up 1.20 here since ,January
I was cold just watching you. You have a lot of snow
Now its warming up and the snow is almost all gone. Whew!
Thanks.
Torsion axles work just AS HARD as leaf springs ! The hard rubber insert in the axle can only be 'Twisted' so many times and then they come apart and QUIT working !
If they lubricate/grease not spray!!! all threads under nuts and the bolts going through eyes of bushings nothing will be stuck for decades. Anything sprayed or not greased will succumb to the weather. I'm usually on the wrong end of STUCKS... and most are not my vehicles!
Like the 40 year roof I had put on couple years at 73 I think the roof and springs will long outlast us.
I'm curious as to your thoughts regarding a drop vs straight axle for camping/towing. Is the extra ground clearance needed?
Good question. I have never had a problem with ground clearance with the straight axle however, if you are planning on some serious offroading, then the drop axle might be ok. I just like having the availability of parts that the leaf spring axle provides because if you break a torsion arm axle you may be stranded for a long time waiting for parts to arrive.
@@gonagain Most trailers I see have a 4" drop axle making it 4" lower to the ground compared to the straight axle. Looks like only way to get a straight axle is custom order in my area. I will be sticking to a leaf spring due to the parts availability you mention.
Can you pass along info on your wheel lock, I checked on Amazon and could not find it.
The wheel lock is from Proven Industries and, along with several good anti theft lugnuts, gives peace of mind when we're away.
@@gonagain Thanks. I actually have one of their hitch locks.
Is your TV a Yukon?
Yes it is.
Well, when I watched the broken leaf spring video. I told my wife They should of replaced the other side! Oh well!
I don’t have clothes to live in that cold 🥶!! Yuck
Rick, now that you are the King of the Road... I was wanting to know more about up grading my
That's galso going to depend the load rating of your trailer's floor. How far apart are the floor frames and how thick is the flooring? This is something the manufacturer would be able to tell you. My trailer has the floor beams on 24" centers and an upgrade would be 16" centers, just as an example. Then there's the rating on the tires as well. I would think for that kind of load (4000+ lbs.) you may want a tandem axle.
Linda we always knew you were pulling the heavy load......maybe you could install one of those equalizers.......great video guys and head South....17 below is for people who live in igloos
It warmed up this week!
Hi Rick, Hi Linda. Gee, that Temp. Reading was So Inviting I expected to see you in Shorts & Flip Flops. I DON'T know how you all do it???--Regarding the Springs, I had the dealer 'Flip' them Upside-Down, plus Exchanged the tires for Something a Tad Taller. But Now, my Rig Looks 40ft. Tall. Almost Rediculous and wondering if I shot myself in the foot?? One thing for certain is: My gas mileage will Drop to Below 50% with all the Wind Resistance. But I'm Not Complaining, only Explaining. Still, YIKES. 🤔 70°+ TODAY. The Southern-Tundra is 'Calling You' 🤗🌞🌝👍
70 degrees! How is that even possible in the world?
@@gonagain It Actually got up to 77 yesterday. It's called the 'January or February Thaw'. It happens once every winter. Spring brings Rain & Cold. It's Not Over just yet.☹
I was re watching some of your old videos. Was episode about Walmart throwing out spoiled food . On that note. All the Christmas extra stuff at a Sam’s club that doesn’t sell gets tossed out as well! We are such a wasteful nation! 🥴
Hello Ralph, you sure got that right.
Wait a minute...200 degrees below zero in Montana and you go to a spring repair shop with the name SWAN....shouldnt it be named Penquin?
That's funny!😄
Lol! Well, it was "Swain" but that's close enough. Or is that German for "swan" or something...
How much did you pay for your aluminum trailer? I am wanting to get one like that .
I bought mine used for a good price and I don't know what they are new. I didn't get aluminum because it was lighter, because it doesn't make enough difference for gas mileage, but because it doesn't require yearly painting to keep it from rusting, so I think the extra cost is well worth it.
I just want to say If you are breaking springs I would double check your load to make sure you are not overloading your rig. ( just saying .) maybe get it reweighed. Cause we all add stuff into our trailer and after time we forget about the extra weight we might be adding.
Thanks Jay. Actually my trailer is just about empty with only our bunks and personal gear, but we do travel a lot of rough roads. What broke the spring was snagging the tire on a tree stump.
That old leaf spring, you could make some knives with it. I was just wondering, how often do you pack the wheel bearings on you camper. Good video as always. You need to be back in Arizona where it is warm. Tell Linda to take a coffee break take care and stay safe.
Hello WR! I have replaced the wheel bearings once (the first ones were Chinese) and I installed "Bearing Buddies" so that I could just use a grease gun to lube them since (about twice a year). But this spring I'm replacing them just to be safe. That will be about 5 years since I actually took them off.
I called two fellows i know who own cargo trailers who use them as RV units for Elk hunting and Deer hunting and they beat those logging roads all the time but i wanted to find out if they broke a leaf spring or two , nope and no one has heard of it .. Leaf springs are in constant motion which is true, that's the job of a spring , movement .. But if one does break that's all it means one broke , replace it and on you go.. But both springs breaking ? never in my 77 years have i heard of that ..
Are you sure the springs weren't made in Iran or China ? That doesn't say much for quality if that's the case ...I know one dealer here and maybe i'll give him a call to see what he knows but pretty good bet he won't say anything as he sells the cargo trailers .. But still it's good to know and useful information ...I'll hang on to this one and keep asking fellows who own them as i'm looking to buy a cargo trailer this spring sometime ...
One side broke and it's likely due to work hardening, so I had the other side replaced just in case.
@@gonagain Good insurance as you lost one spring .. I called one more fellow i know to ask him about his cargo trailer and throughout the years he has beat it up and down every logging road for hunting seasons , he said no broken spring , he said it should have broke , it's designed to flex .. No one here so far has lost a spring .. Could very well have had a defect in the spring ..
@@gonagain I have never seen one setup with shocks or rubber bumper stops , just never have , but that doesn't mean an aftermarket company doesn't make a kit for cargo trailers , that i do not know ..But it is interesting though ..
He said it should not have broke .. I forgot to reread it before i clicked on send ...
driving on ice is fun, hit the brake and go, hit the gas and sit still
It's funny how it switches things around like that.
Too cold Crazy living in that
I agree with you completely! But this is where the rest of the family lives, otherwise I'd be outta here!!!
So, about the only thing you didn't put on the drop-down list is the locking wheel chock.
Actually, 4 wheel drive can be used to stop a vehicle. Slam on the brakes, put it in reverse, stomp on the gas. I used that trick several times in my youth when driving in bad conditions. About the same time period, I used to slam on the brakes, put it in reverse, crank the wheel, and go down the road backwards in the snow. One time I did it and I was staring at a police car behind me. I spun it around kept driving. He must have thought I lost control as he didn't stop me. Might be a little tough with a trailer. Actually, I .....
Interesting way to get stopped and beats the Flintstone method of dragging your feet! The wheel lock is from Proven Industries, not cheap but good insurance never is.
Thank you, I'll look them up. I accidentally learned the stomp, reverse, gas thing as I was starting over an embankment at 20mph on an icy road. I kept from going over. Used it a couple of times after that. You have to be quick and decisive.
Take a spear leaf spring, dang it, you said that at the end.
WHO EVER TOLD YOU THAT SHOCKS ON A RV TRAILER DO NO GOOD SHOULD CHECK HIS OR HER FACTS. SHOCKS DO TWO THINGS, ONE, THEY HELP IN CONTROLING HOW THE TRAILER REACTS TO ROAD CONDITIONS. IT HELPS ELEMINATE SWAY BY STOPPING THE TOP OF THE TRAILER FROM ROLLING. ALSO SHOCKS HELP TAKE THE IMPACT OUT OF POT HOLES AND BAD ROAD CONDITIONS WHICH CAUSE SPRINGS TO BRAKE AND OTHER COMPONENTS LIKE BEARINGS AND SHAKLES TO WEAR OUT. GO TO A HIGH END RV SALES LOCATION AND LOOK UNDER THEIR TRAILERS.
I never said they didn't do any good, I said shocks won't fit in this particular type of axle.
Definitely not spring time when you recorded this.
No, but it's coming... I hope.
@@gonagain Not " Leaf Spring " time either.
Looks to cold for me
AND me!!!
Less desire to overload your single axel trailer and have a pusher behind you.
Thought I would learn something about a torsion axle- what it is - how it works....nope.
Hello Paul, the point of the video is not to get torsion axles because of their cost and difficulty of finding replacement parts when they break. I'm not promoting torsion axles, just the opposite.