I've crossposted this question from the chassis and trailers forum in hopes that it will get more responses in here. The whole post is titled "axle specification questions" and contains several questions, but the only answer I've gotten to date makes one of those questions paramount. Here it is:
Question 2: Reading AT's axle/suspension info, they suggest that rubber torsion axles might NOT be good choices in dusty, washboard environments. They said that in their tests, rubber torsion axles failed when dust got into the works. How likely is this to be a problem? Did AT have this experience because they beat their axles to death, or is premature failure a frequent issue when rubber torsion axles are used in dusty, rough applications? Has anyone here had this experience? (AT didn't like leaf-springs either....)
As I mentioned in the other thread, I anticipate using my TD mostly off-road, or on what passes for roads in the Saline Valley, Mojave Desert, Baja California, etc-- mile after mile of washboard and abrasive dust.
I have the frame welded, but I need wheels on that sucker! The plans I'm using (Kuffel Creek) blithely specify a Dexter torsion axle but give no indication that might not work well in my application.
And please do look at that other thread since I have other questions too! Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer!
Best,
Mike C.
