Benefits of diff. axle types?

[Laeka]

Okay, the questions begin! What are the pros and cons of the different types of axles I see mentioned here? There seem to be quite a few variations. Why would one want an axle that seems to drop the wheels or frame a bit? Is it just a smoother ride? Would shocks take care of that issue? The more I read about prefab trailers, the more I'm leaning toward a build your own frame etc. But, the more I learn, the more there is to learn! Thanks, Daniel

[madjack]

L, most of it has to do with personal preference...I MUCH prefer a custom built frame, thataway you get whatcha want but if you don't have welding skils(or access to them) a bolt together or prefab is the way to go...you basically have a choice of spring hung or torsion axles...torsion axles(my preference) combine the ride of a shock mounted, spring hung axle in a single, lower riding, cleaner looking unit...spring hung axles are cheaper(100-200 bucks cheaper) and with the addition of shocks, ride as well or better than a torsion axle...if you add a drop axle to this package, you can get a lower ride as well...so, like I said, it is as much about personal preference as anything else...WHAT DO YOU WANT!!!!!!
madjack

[asianflava]

I prefer a torsion axle. It's a simplier setup, not many things to break.

[cuyeda]

....you basically have a choice of spring hung or torsion axles...torsion axles(my preference) combine the ride of a shock mounted, spring hung axle in a single, lower riding, cleaner looking unit...
madjack

Question: Does a lower riding unit have anything to do with better gas mileage, wind drafting, or is it just about the looks? Just curious...

[madjack]

....you basically have a choice of spring hung or torsion axles...torsion axles(my preference) combine the ride of a shock mounted, spring hung axle in a single, lower riding, cleaner looking unit...
madjack

Question: Does a lower riding unit have anything to do with better gas mileage, wind drafting, or is it just about the looks? Just curious...

??????...as long as the camper is in the wind shadow of the tow vehicle, it really doesn't make much of any difference and comes back to the looks preferred...if you are building a taller camper, then the lower ride will help put it into the "wind shadow" and maybe even get it low enough to fit into your garage...remember, the wind shadow applies to the underneath side as well...also as Rocky stated...fewer parts to break on a torsion axle...I am sure they do break but I have never seen one broken...I have seen plenty of spring hung axles break...
madjack