[VAC] Re: Hitch height (& bike cariers)

[Inlandrv@xxxxxxx]

Dick. Rear end separation is referred to when the frame separates from the 
shell. Adding a heavier bumper or beefing up the frame will "not" stop the 
separation.
What really happens is the frame pulls away from the shell allowing water to 
get to the plywood floor. In time, that wood rots, further adding to the 
separation.
If you want to take the rear end apart and modify it to do want your talking 
about is ok. However, when someone has done it before, and therefore knows 
all the requirements, it will take about 16 to 20 hours to do it. Certainly 
not the task I would suggest for the typical owner.
Also keep in mind that whatever additional weight you add to the rear end has 
a negative effect on the tongue weight. If enough rear end weight is added, 
it can render the trailer uncontrollable. In that case moving the axle or 
axles rearward several inches would solve that problem.
The long and short of it is, "DON'T."
I am not trying to scare you, but facts are facts. Altering the original 
Airstream design is something we do, everyday. But, in order to do so, we 
must take many more steps beyond what seems ok. In doing so, we do move 
axles, add additional axles, beef up the frame, etc. We have on the road a 31 
foot trailer, with 3 axles, that grosses over 12,000 pounds, with not a 
problem one. It just takes time, and, a lot of money. Presently we are 
working with someone to create a triple axle 31 foot Airstream trailer, that 
will gross out at about 14,000 pounds, with a water tank system that will 
carry 200 gallons and a gray tank that will hold right at 180 gallons, all 
without changing the weight and balance, along with many other very special 
components.    

Andy
inlandrv.com
airstreamparts.com