Van/Camper ground clearance
Submitted: Tuesday, Feb 16, 2010 at 14:49
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Grass Parrot
Thinking of buying an Expanda type of van but would like alittle more ground clearance for an on road model. I'm NOT thinking of taking it off road but would like it to sit a little higher if possible.
Is it as simple as putting bigger rims (increase by an inch or two) and higher profile tyres or will this cause other problems?
Reply By: Roughasguts - Tuesday, Feb 16, 2010 at 14:54
Tuesday, Feb 16, 2010 at 14:54
You can just run the axle under the leaf springs, gives around another 2 inchess.
AnswerID:
404422
Follow Up By: Grass Parrot - Tuesday, Feb 16, 2010 at 14:56
Tuesday, Feb 16, 2010 at 14:56
Is this a job I could do or is it one I leave to an expert? I am reasonable at DIY.
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Follow Up By: Notso - Tuesday, Feb 16, 2010 at 15:01
Tuesday, Feb 16, 2010 at 15:01
Probably gives more like 4 inches I think.
A reasonably handy person could do it, but just make sure that the van is fully supported on solid stands, not stacked up bricks etc before you start working under it.
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Reply By: Member - Tour Boy ( Bundy QLD) - Tuesday, Feb 16, 2010 at 15:02
Tuesday, Feb 16, 2010 at 15:02
Yep spring over axle like this:
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Cheers
Dave
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Reply By: Member - Old Girl (QLD) - Tuesday, Feb 16, 2010 at 21:59
Tuesday, Feb 16, 2010 at 21:59
Dont forget about the drop of the annex if it has one.
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Reply By: ozjohn0 - Wednesday, Feb 17, 2010 at 09:47
Wednesday, Feb 17, 2010 at 09:47
You could do a Spring Over Axle Conversion if you think you're up to it , or better still take it to a van service centre have have it done by them.
If you intend to do it yourself there are a couple of things you should do.After removing the Spring location pads from the axle. Relocate them to the other side and weld them laterally. i'e' along the axle not across it as this weakens the axle through crystalisation of the steel. Also fit new "High Tensile" 'U' Blots.
Note: The Expander will have an 'Overlay' axle and these must not be turned over 180 degrees.
ozjohn.
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Reply By: Mogul - Wednesday, Feb 17, 2010 at 18:21
Wednesday, Feb 17, 2010 at 18:21
What are the legalities of doing this type of conversion? Will you still be covered by your insurance?
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404584