Re: [A/S] Re: Hensley Hitch Install - Recoring Axles

["Mr. Joy H. Hansen" <joytbrew@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Andy,

You've got me a bit confused with regard to the spring bar jacks, the
visible holes, and proper setup.  As I keep reading the list posts, my
thinking usually comes around to a proper understanding.

Also, I think my experience in altering the Hensley specifications might be
of interest to other Airstream owners ordering or installing a Hensley.

For example, I'm running three holes open in the spring bar jacks rather
than two, though the style coupler says I should have two.

I did this so I could get reverse tension on the Hensley when I attempt
hookup.  Some occasions seemed to require holding the Hensley at different
angles to facilitate easy hookup.  Meaning  angled up or down to match the
angle of the draw bar in the tow vehicle receiver.  Hensley tech
consultation agreed that this was acceptable.

The number of holes doesn't seem to have a lot to do with the final position
of the springbar unless the threaded rod runs out or in too far.  If the
jack is extended one hole, it just means that the jack must be cranked an
inch higher to get proper tension.  Maybe you know a reason why I shouldn't
have the Hensley adjusted this way?

Another interesting deviation from the Hensley specification is that my
style C coupler required the standard mounting brackets rather than the
inverted brackets.  This was required to bring the strut assemblies parallel
with the "A" frame.  Both the '74 Argosy 22 and the '69 Safari have 4 inch
"A" frame channel and style "C" coupler.

The Hensley specification must refer to "A" frames that have a 5 or 6 inch
channel.

With regard to the height of the Airstream frame from the turf, doesn't the
height of the frame at the axle depend on the load as well as the condition
of the axles?  Seems that there should be a range of a couple of inches as
the arm moves from "10" degrees negative to "0" degrees? I know my axles are
wasted as they have a 5 degree positive with a moderate load in the trailer,
and near "0" degree with the axle off the ground.

Shouldn't the axle have a 22 degree negative position with the wheel off the
ground?

My Argosy sits at about 14 to 14-1/2  inches.  Gives my Argosy a droopy tail
with a 6 inch drop from the truck receiver.

Well, that's what I think, right or wrong.  Got to keep in touch with the
thread and learn a lot.   Possibly I'll get it right sooner or later with
some of your answers to my questions. :)

                         Regards, Joy