Dexter TorqFlex Axle

[APD]

Our '05 T139 has the undersized (2200#) Dexter TorqFlex axle. I've noticed that some later models X139s I've seen for sale have leaf spring axles.
Anyone know when they changed?
Was the TorqFlex optional or was the leaf springs optional?
I've searched for recalls but haven't found anything related to TorqFlex axles. I'm hoping to start this project soon and I'm wavering between swapping to a leaf spring or just ordering a 3500# TorqFlex.
Spring is on the way.....

Alan

 

[APD]

As an edit: We had the axle re-bent to correct the camber but, with the axle bottomed out, I don't believe it will last. Also, because it has no suspension travel, the trailer will sometimes "hop" badly when running on concrete roads or crossing bridges. Very concerning.

Alan

 

[M Wilkie]

As an edit: We had the axle re-bent to correct the camber but, with the axle bottomed out, I don't believe it will last. Also, because it has no suspension travel, the trailer will sometimes "hop" badly when running on concrete roads or crossing bridges. Very concerning.

Alan

I am a total dummy and I'm sure you have seen this. Probably means nothing.

http://dexteraxle.com/i/u/6149609/f/600-8K_Catalog/Torflex_Information.pdf

And typing in Dexter Torqflex Recalls go this:
https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=Dexter+TorqFlex+axle+recall&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8

 

[APD]

Thanks,
Yep, I've printed that out before.
Ours is the #9 or #09H axle which is the 1000 to 2200 pound axle. with a dry weight of just under 2000 pounds the axle is maxed out.
I did find out, using that info, that our #9 axle has the #10 brakes. Actually larger than what Dexter lists as needed for the #9 axle!
My thought is that the axle was ordered that way by Cruiser probably to save a buck.

Alan

 

[M Wilkie]

Sorry for your problems. I saw different owners of different brands having problems as well and some had recalls.
It looks like the 2007 had leaf springs. Not sure about a 2006 though. profdant139 On here may know.

 

[APD]

I don't really believe this is a problem with the Dexter product. The Gross weight listed on the trailer is 3000 pounds. I believe it's a misapplication by Cruiser RV causing the axle to be overloaded during normal use.
Even if T139 is 1960 pounds dry, add your camping supplies, 25 gal of water and propane and your over the 2200 pound axle rating of the axle. I'm not sure if the "dry" weight even includes the AC or the awing.
It's a little bit too old to expect any sort of response from Cruiser. I'm resigned to fixing it myself.
Right now I'm leaning toward a new heavier duty TorqFlex replacement. But I'm not there yet.

Alan

 

[M Wilkie]

I don't really believe this is a problem with the Dexter product. The Gross weight listed on the trailer is 3000 pounds. I believe it's a misapplication by Cruiser RV causing the axle to be overloaded during normal use.
Even if T139 is 1960 pounds dry, add your camping supplies, 25 gal of water and propane and your over the 2200 pound axle rating of the axle. I'm not sure if the "dry" weight even includes the AC or the awing.
It's a little bit too old to expect any sort of response from Cruiser. I'm resigned to fixing it myself.
Right now I'm leaning toward a new heavier duty TorqFlex replacement. But I'm not there yet.

Alan

I guess they might have gone to leaf springs due to complaints and to save money.

 

[Dakota 1120]

The difference between

Complete Trailers, LLCThe Torsion vs. Spring Axle Debate Demystified | Complete Trailers Blog

 

[APD]

So it begins. I spoke with Connie at Dexter Axle, very helpful and knowledgeable, and we compared the #09H with the #10. Should be a snap.

Leveled her up and began removing the old axle.
The Dexter distributor can order a replacement but he and I agreed that we needed the old axle to measure and compare before ordering.

Connie at Dexter ran the part numbers and the hubs and brakes that Cruiser spec'd for the T139 will swap to the 3500# axle. Saving me quite a bit.
In this pic you can see the heavier spindle for the larger bearings and the EZ-lube feature. The larger bearings and 10x2.25 brakes were special ordered on the #09 but are standard for the new #10. I will order the EZ-lube on the #10 as well.

 

[APD]

And it's out:

Friday I'll take it to the distributor and we'll place an order. Hopefully it won't take too long to make up a replacement.
Missing something....

 

[Dakota 1120]

ADP ~ what do you plan to do with torsion the axle you removed?

 

[APD]

I don't know. It would make a nice little trailer axle as long as the weight is kept under 2000#.

Alan

 

[Dakota 1120]

I was thinking the same thing ... but wonder what the hubs w/brakes & bearings would cost.

 

[APD]

Idler hubs wouldn't be too expensive but the 10" brakes would get into the wallet a little deep for a small utility trailer.
I was very happy to discover the large brakes on the little T139.

 

[APD]

And the larger bearings:

 

[APD]

Usually the 09 has the same size inner and outer.

 

[APD]

Part number on the brakes:

Like that EZ-lube.....

 

[APD]

The larger spindle tells me someone at Cruiser RV ordered it that way. The brakes were great but the axle was undersized big time......

Alan

 

[Dakota 1120]

Oh yea, must have had brain lockup as would only need idler hubs & bearings.
LOL

 

[APD]

The replacement 3500# axle is on order. The distributor, Country Boy Trailers, tells me it should be here in a couple of weeks. (10 business days from this past Tuesday)
I'll take pictures.