bassman

Thanks Brad, you pretty much called the way that worked out in it's entirety. I ended up finding a different axle than the original one on ebay. I found one on CL that was driving distance to me (Chico, CA) and it came with four toyota 6 lug wheels, all for $270, and I didn't have to pay the $200 of freight like the one in LA on Ebay. I think I got a pretty great deal on the part, but the labor was a pretty heavy expense. They did have to fabricate all the parts you mentioned, and it needed new wheel cylinders, brake shoes, and U-bolts. Now my new concerns are that my speedometer is off, because the ratios changed on my differential, and I hope that the gearing changed for the better (easier to go up hills, more torque). I would think that the 1 ton would have a ratio that is more geared towards pulling heavier loads, but I am not sure yet...I guess I need to go try driving it up a hill. haha.

I will defintely check that out...pretty sure thats whats happening. Update: I got my 6- lug axle in!!! Now the new problem is my speedometer is all wrong from the gearing change.....jeesh. Keeps going I guess. I am getting ready to go on my first trip next week, up a steep hill. Haha. Hopefully she does ok.

Alright everybody, call me a rookie. I just realized that I purchased the new axle, but if it is going from 5 to 6 lug, won't I need to get four new wheels? This is getting expensive.... I heard this could happen! If I need to do this, can anyone recommend what to buy? Hopefully something that I can keep my new tires I just bought..... Thanks all! Marcus

Thanks guys! You are all so helpful. I have a lot of learning to do. I did go ahead and buy that axel on Ebay, in fact I was already checking that out...What a deal. I am getting that puppy installed on Friday. I will sure feel a lot better about big road trips in the RV at that point. The Sunrader has 64-XXX miles on it. I actually talked the seller of it down from $4800 to $1500!!! I don't know how but I did... It already had 4 new tires, I had to buy two. Checked out the RV components (Shower, toilet, stove oven, furnace, refer) and they all work, except i needed a new ignition computer board for the furnace. Also had a few pretty nasty leaks over the bed ( I think coming through the window) and a few leaks on the roof vent penetrations. I re-sealed them all and seemed ok, but the damn roof vents aren't fixed completely yet. I think the actual housing might be leaking. Hmm. Thanks again fellas.

I have this 85' (or 86') Toyota Sunrader. Just bought it, and am super excited about it, it's my first RV. I am now figuring out that I may or may not have this risky axle I am hearing about on the forum. Can someone look at this picture and tell me which I have, and what the next steps are for a safe ride? Thanks!!! Marcus P.S. The Axle FAQ is very helpful!! Thanks!