[VAC] Re: 59 Overlander brakes

["Harvey Barlow" <harveybarlow@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Richard,

I walked into a local shop that specializes in cargo, utility, and stock
trailers with the bearings from my '66 Safari in hand and was astonished how
easy finding replacements was.  Not only were they in stock but the price
was a fraction of RV dealer prices.  I don't want to try to become a
middle-man and describe your bearings to them for you but I'll be happy to
provide a name and phone number if you don't have a source close to home.
You may have a similar business where you live.  I think I paid a little
more than $20 for four new bearings.  I have yet to locate new seals though.
Also, the same company sold me a pair of complete new backing plates with
all new brake components in 12" by 2" size for $45 each.

Unless '59s are significantly lighter than '60s era trailers, I would
estimate you need the 3500# axle assembly as a minimum.  A 5000 # might be a
wise choice.  Maybe someone on the list has the actual specs and can tell
both of us.

An Overlander is approximately 24' isn't it?  My '66 Safari 22' owner's
manual lists dry weight at 3360 # and specifies 700 x 15" 8 ply rated light
truck tires which are rated at 2040 pounds per tire.  Figuring 4080 pounds
maximum load on the tires and another 500 - 600 pounds on the hitch provides
an estimate of about 4600 = 4700 pounds maximum gross weight for my 22'
trailer.  Yours could possibly gross 4800 to 5000 pounds fully loaded.  I
don't think Airstream provided a gross weight rating in earlier years.

Harvey Barlow
Lubbock, TX
WBCCI # 1171, WDCU, VAC