axle and spring replacement at Alcan Spring

[Ospreybob]

Hey folks,

I am thinking about replacing the axles and springs on my 2021 LE2.  I just got an estimate of $3,600 from Alcan Springs in Grand Junction, CO to do 5 leaf Alcan springs and the nev-r-lube 5,200 LB dexter axles.  They have done this work on A LOT of Olivers.  I live in Florida and a local trailer company can do this work as well, but my wife is leaning heavily toward Alcan Springs doing the work due to their experience with Olivers.  We will be in Colorado in October so we could get the work done then, but I'd prefer to have it done in Florida so we have the new equipment in place before our summer trip.  The job seems straightforward to me so it seems like any competent company should be able to do the work.  I'd appreciate input from anyone who has an informed opinion about the choice of having the work done here in Florida or in Colorado.

Thanks!!

Bob Frank

[jd1923]

I did the work myself, so I can tell you, it's rather straightforward. I promise you, and your wife, there's nothing special here, no need for specific Oliver experience since any tandem-axle trailer would take the same installation.

Find a local trailer shop with good reviews. Find one that is a Dexter shop and they may give you better pricing on the axles. It's good to have a local trailer shop you have frequented, who you can call on again when needed (e.g. replace the Nev-R Lube bearings in 5 years). Alcan will always be too far away for hands-on help. They make great springs though!

Order Alcan springs shipped directly to you. There has been some question on the quality of their wet-bolts in recent Forum threads. I would certainly replace ALL parts, including the EZ Flex, given your 5-year-old trailer. You could buy a new EZ Flex kit with or without the wet bolts.

I went with all the Alcan parts, leaf springs, U-bolts, shackles and wet-bolts (they're fine), and also ordered two (2) of each of these parts for the centers (yes, ALL new parts):
https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Suspension-Parts/Dexter/013-144-03.html
https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Suspension-Parts/TruRyde/TRFA73Z916DLNZ.html

You have the right idea! You'll feel much better leaving home READY for your cross-country trip! I always get my work done at home. My sole purpose for camping in our Oliver is to go somewhere, just anywhere, forcing me NOT to work. You won't find me under our trailer on some gravel lot! 😎

Edited Friday at 07:46 PM by jd1923

[Ospreybob]

Thanks!  I do have a shop here that has been doing the bearings so I’ll talk to them first.