The Lippert Components aftermarket shock kit is designed to improve the ride quality of trailers by managing axle spring movement. This document details the installation process, required tools, and important notes based on the provided manual and support documentation. The kits are available for various axle sizes, including 2 3/8” and 3” beam kits. Proper installation, including correct torque specifications and shock orientation, is crucial for optimal performance and safety.
Introduction to Aftermarket Shock Kits
Lippert Components offers aftermarket shock kits intended to enhance the ride comfort of trailers. These kits function by efficiently controlling axle spring movement, resulting in a smoother travel experience. The documentation specifies that the kits are “complete,” suggesting they include all necessary components for installation. The provided materials do not detail specific vehicle compatibility beyond axle size; therefore, users should verify the kit’s suitability for their particular trailer.
Parts List and Identification
The shock kit includes several components, identified by letter codes in the parts list. The specific components vary slightly depending on the axle size.
For the 2 3/8” Axle Beam Kit, the following parts are included:
- A: U-bolt (122073)
- B: Shock Mounting Tie Plate (1938281)
- D: 1/2” x 20 Nut (122079)
- E: Shock Upper Mounting Bracket (275047)
- F: 3/8” - 16 x 1” Self Tapping Bolt (191021)
- G: Shock (177734)
For the 3” Axle Beam Kit, the following parts are included:
- A: U-bolt (2139541)
- B: Shock Mounting Tie Plate (2139531)
- C: 9/16” Washer (170997)
- D: 9/16” Nut (182274)
- E: Shock Upper Mounting Bracket (275046)
- F: 3/8” - 16 x 1” Self Tapping Bolt (191021)
- G: Shock (177734)
It is explicitly noted that old components should not be reused during installation.
Required Tools
Successful installation requires the following tools:
- Floor Jack
- Drill / Socket Wrench
- Torque Wrench
- 3/8” Socket
- 9/16” Socket (required for the 3” axle kit)
The documentation does not specify the required torque for all fasteners, only mentioning a torque specification of 90 ft lbs for the u-bolts.
Installation Procedure
The installation process involves several steps, as outlined in the manual. The following provides a detailed breakdown:
- Preparation: Ensure the trailer is properly supported using a floor jack.
- U-bolt and Tie Plate Removal: Remove the existing u-bolts and tie plate.
- New Tie Plate Installation: Install the new tie plate, ensuring the longer side faces outward. Torque the u-bolts to 90 ft lbs.
- Shock Compression and Marking: Compress the shock and mark the inner shock at the point where the outer shock stops. This marking is used for subsequent measurements.
- Stroke Measurement: Release the compression and measure the shock stroke. Mark the inner shock at one-half of the stroke length.
- Shock Length Measurement: Measure the shock length when compressed to the halfway mark.
- Trailer Leveling and Marking: Lower the trailer onto its tires and level it. Measure perpendicularly from the shock mounting lip on the tie plate, using a distance equal to the shock length measured in Step 6, plus 2 inches. Mark this location on the I-beam, parallel to the shock mounting lip.
- Shock Mounting: Mount the shocks pointing outwards, away from the shackle kit, equalizer, and/or center point.
- Dry Fit Verification: Perform a dry fit to ensure the shock does not exceed a 45-degree angle. If it does, the shock will not function correctly.
Important Installation Notes
The documentation includes several important notes to ensure proper installation and functionality:
- Component Reuse: Do not use old components.
- Shock Orientation: Mount shocks pointing outwards to achieve optimal performance.
- Angle Limitation: Ensure the shock angle does not exceed 45 degrees during the dry fit. Exceeding this angle will result in improper function.
- Manual Distribution: The manual may only be distributed as a complete document unless Lippert Components provides explicit consent for partial distribution.
- Manual Updates: Manual information is subject to change without notice, and revised editions are available for free download from the Lippert Components website. The current manual is considered factual until superseded by a revised version.
Measuring Shock Stroke and Length
Accurate measurement of shock stroke and length is critical for proper installation. The manual details a specific procedure:
- Initial Compression: Compress the shock and mark the point where the outer shock stops.
- Stroke Determination: Release compression and measure the distance between the initial mark and the end of the shock to determine the stroke length.
- Halfway Mark: Compress the shock again and mark the inner shock at one-half of the stroke length.
- Length Measurement: Measure the shock length while compressed to the halfway mark. This measurement is used to determine the mounting location on the I-beam.
Torque Specifications
The documentation explicitly states a torque specification of 90 ft lbs for the u-bolts. Torque specifications for other fasteners are not provided. It is recommended to consult with a qualified mechanic or refer to additional Lippert Components documentation for specific torque requirements for all components.
Conclusion
The Lippert Components aftermarket shock kit offers a solution for improving trailer ride quality. Successful installation requires careful adherence to the provided instructions, including proper tool usage, accurate measurements, and attention to critical notes regarding shock orientation and angle limitations. The documentation emphasizes the importance of using new components and avoiding the reuse of old parts. Users should consult the Lippert Components website for the latest manual revisions and additional support documentation.
Sources
The provided source material is insufficient to produce a 2000-word article. Below is a factual summary based on available data.