hikeril
Fairview Heights, IL
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After returning from a camping trip I noticed the inside of both tires have worn down considerably more than the remaining tire tread. Did some research and determined it was probably a bent axle from overloading. Took my camper to the dealer who did determine the axle is bent based on measurements. Dealer contacted Dexter Axle to see if it would be covered under warranty but the warranty does not cover bent axles although it is a two year warranty. The dealer suggested I contact the Dexter to see if they will work with me on replacement axle. The dealer has quoted my $775 to replace the axle which brings me to several questions.
Has anyone replaced an axle and if so what did it cost? I have checked around but because I do not have the camper it is difficult for me to answer all questions which the following is a list. I received another quote of $590 to replace the axle including labor and u bolts/clams.
Number of tire lugs?
Axle rating? Is it possible to install a higher weight rating axle on the camper?
I struggle with the fact the camper has been overloaded as well as the dealer struggling with this same concept. Dealer said it is extremely difficult to overload a pop up.
Any thoughts on filling water tank at home or when arriving at the campground? I do fill prior to leaving home but based on my calculations this only adds to 215lbs (including 6 gal water tank) along with 40lbs for propane.. Other than that we take the necessities. Three chairs, two small fold up tables. Pots and pans are ultralight (no dutch oven). I have towels (backpacking towels) and bedding (three sleeping bags). Clothes from my DW, my 6 year old daughter and myself. I carry bikes in my truck along with wood, additional water and some other items that I store in the camper. Based the brochure (the camper is not at home so unable to look at the official weight tag) there is 810lbs of cargo carrying capacity.
Could snow load cause excessive weight? Live near ST LOUIS so we do not receive a great deal of snow.
Look forwards to any thoughts, suggestions or comments.
2008 Toyota Tundra Double Cab 5.7L 4X4 TRD
2008 Fleetwood Niagara
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mike4947
N. Syracuse, NY
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As to overloading a PU, due to the over the years weight creep we've seen years where, right off the showroom floor, campers that said they had 600-700 pounds of carrying capacity were actually over their GVWR. So my first recommendation would be to get the camper to a scale.
As to the "bend" there is actually a bend from the factory. it's an upward bow that flattens out when the camper's weight is on the wheels. But an errant curb or pothole can damage them without the driver really knowing the trailer took a hit. That's why Dexter doesn't warranty bend/damaged assemblies.
As to replacing the axle. It's actually a fairly easy DIY project. Prices and shipping have changed since we last ordered any but I'd say a new complete assembly with brakes should run around $350-$400 delivered. What up's the cost is the dealers' labor rate. Most shops are now in the $100-$120 an hour range. Doesn't take but a few hours to run up quite a bill.
It is possible to replace the existing D35 (2300-3500 pound ratings)axle with a D52 (4000-6000 pound ratings) assembly, http://www.dexteraxle.com/
But remember the springs and frame are still the same so the GVWR of the trailer does NOT increase.
What you need is the numbers off the tag located on the axle to determine what's actually under there now, and don't forget taking the camper to the scale.
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stratmansailing
Michigan
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Joined: 05/13/2009
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Take your trailer to a car truck frame shop. They can re arch the axle, and check the alignment. I had it done on a travel trailer once that was wearing the tires
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kingairta
Marietta, Ga
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Joined: 04/23/2009
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This is who I used when I rebuilt my boat trailer.
http://shop.easternmarine.com/index.cfm
Prices are good and the parts are quality.
You can even upgrade the axle and springs so you can get a higher GWVR.
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mtkbuckeye
Clinton, Utah
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I had mine replaced last year because I had the same wear pattern. My great dealer here only charged me less than $300.
2005 Salem
2006 Ram 1500 Quad Cab Hemi 5.7L
"If we ever forget that we're one nation under God then we will be a nation gone under." - Ronald Reagan
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OldMan5
California
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Joined: 10/13/2008
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Been there, done that
.
I have a 2007 Niagara also -----the tires kendas with a knobby type tread pattern--and they wear poorly and are near overload as is the 3500# axle when you load everything up---even considering the amount of weight that the tongue carries. You will also find more inside tire wear on the slide side because of additional weight. Dexter sent me a bare axle tube--as a 1 time free replacement, Since the dealer blew me off also. The price for the same (dexter) part at a local frame & axle shop was only $97.00.
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I installed the free axle from dexter and bought better (higher rated) tires.
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The trailer as built runs at the weight limits when loaded----take in some rough back roads and potholes and you exceed maximum limits quickly to start tweeking the #3500 axle.
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I have weighed my trailer axle weight, left & right & tongue weights, I know exactly how my trailer is loaded and have been able move a few things around when loading to best balance the total load.
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I love the trailer---I just wished they had added a little more margin for the extra weight that we all add.
2007 Fleetwood Niagara (AKA the ChuckWagon)
EU2000 Honda
1989 E150 Ford van (Restored)
We've been tent camping for 30yrs----This is a nice change
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mwebber78
Maine
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Joined: 08/07/2005
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They saved $5 by giving you the smaller axle.
I would have it re-bent and move on unless you want to go with a larger axle to avoid this issue in the future. The rate your dealer wants seem's really high. For a single axle your talking about 1.0 to 1.5 of labor.
Michael 
2 DD's and my DW 
6 Acre's in Southern Maine
2009 Crossroads Cruiser CF31SB
2008 Chevy 2500HD LT 4X4
Camping Pictures
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jlwardn
West Michigan
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Joined: 07/12/2008
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I also have a 2007 Niagara. It really only has gone on one long trip from Michigan to Yellowstone. I should not have been overloaded since I did not carry any water and not much gear but when I winterized my camper I noticed severe wear on the inside tread of my tires. I figured it was just some sway over a long trip but from what I read now it may be a bent axle. I am not familiar with anyone who would be able to diagnos or fix my issue in my area....west michigan. I have owned several older pop ups and know for sure I severely overloaded them and I never had this kind of issue. Is this axle the weak point for this popup?
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Campingfools
Illinois
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Joined: 01/02/2007
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Let me add our 07 Niagara to the list with inside tire wear. We don't overload, nor carry water. I had thought part of the problem could be towing out of level (high in front). Have modified the hitch and seemed better after this last trip, but I'm not convinced that was the problem, especially knowing so many of you also have this problem. The jury is still out...!
2006 Explorer EB V6 w/TP WDH (Picture is wishful)
2007 Fleetwood Niagara
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jlwardn
West Michigan
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I emailed Dexter...we will see what they have to say.
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