Re: [A/S] Shocks, tires, and such

[Charlie/Betty Burke <cbburke@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Tire cupping is typically considered a sign of worn or ineffective shocks. Balance 
is also a factor. Airstream has always spec'ed the shock to be used with the 
Henschen axle. For35 years they were
> made by Delco. Most recently Gabriel is making them. They are the same shock 
used on current production. Their shock is not the same as other "universal" 
shocks. Which is not to say others won't
> work, just not the way the axle was designed to.

> Second, my local trailer supply place recomends Bias tires over radials for
> trailers. The reason the said is that when a Radial tires seperates, its like
> a " rotating thousand blade razor that eats propane lines, cabinets, and
> anything in its path" They said Bias tires do not fail near as often as
> radials. What is the experience of all you people out there?

Airstream changed to radial tires back in the 80's once the ST series was 
introduced. Standard auto and LT truck tires are not recommended for trailer 
applications. The ST series has two principal
design differences. One, the sidewall are much stiffer for directional stability 
and, second the rubber is blended with more UV protection. It is true that the 
steel belts tend to hold the tread
together when a radial fails, but then aren't bias ply's built with tread 
reinforcement that will do much the same. All the more reason for a good set of 
towing mirrors that let you see down the side
of your RV.

>
> lastly, what is good to use to wash the trailer on the outside. I seem to
> remember someone saying dish soap was just fine to use. The Airstream guys
> here in SD say now way! It is very corosive to exposed Aluminim where the
> clear coat has peeled. Is this true and if so what could I use till I can get
> the clear coat removed and polished.
> Jon

The reason for not using household detergent is that it typically contains ammonia 
which is very hard on applied wax finishes and exposed aluminum. The recommended 
cleaner is an RV or auto wash
product.

Charlie