Airstream Safari Automobile User Manual


 
D
D - 7
EXTERIOR
AXLE AND RUNNING GEAR ASSEMBLY
Each RUBBER TORSION axle is aligned during manufacturing, and double-checked
on a random basis. Alignment after delivery is the customer’s responsibility.
Hitting chuck holes or rough railroad tracks while going straight will only cause
misalignment after the tire has been struck many repetitive times. Of course, a deep
enough hole can affect the alignment immediately.
The worse culprit is a curb because they are normally struck at an angle. Surprisingly
rear axles are occasionally damaged when people are attempting to park beside a
curb and are backing up their trailer.
As you look under your trailer is it normal for the axle to be bent up in the middle. This
bend is how the camber is obtained.
Toe-in is built into the axle by very slight bends in the axle tube on each end.
If tire wear ever indicate misalignment check with your dealer for the nearest location
having the proper equipment.
NOTICE: Never allow heat to he applied to the axle tube since the rubber provid-
ing the spring torsion action will he severely damaged.
Rubber torsion Axle Alignment Specifications
Toe-In each side 1/16” Tolerance 1/16” + or -
Camber each side ¾ degrees positive Tolerance ¾ degrees + or –
Wheel Bearing Maintenance
1. Jack trailer at marked jack location pad behind axle on mainframe,
2. Remove hubcap or spindle cover, wheel and tire.
3. Remove cotter pin.
4. Remove dust cap.
5. Remove spindle nut and washer.
6. Remove bearings, hub and rotor.
7. Lay down hub and rotor with inside grease seal down. Knock out inner bearing and
grease seal using wood or plastic dowel and hammer.
8. Clean all parts thoroughly with kerosene.
9. Check all bearings and races for chips or roughness of any kind. Any damaged
component must be replaced.
10. Pack bearing with a good grease (No 2 grade-265 ASTM penetration or equivalent).
11. Install inner bearing.
12. Install new grease seal in hub or rotor using wooden or rawhide mallet.
13. Install hub and drum on spindle.
14. Install outer bearing.