LIfted

I'm still not sure where our next adventure will be, but one thing for certain, Waddles will be riding high.   I've been reading about how easy it is to install a lift-kit, and raise the trailer 2.5/8", allowing for better clearance off the pavement.

So after doing some research, and consulting with my resident mechanic and checking the height of the garage door (to make sure Waddles could still fit in), I ordered up the kit for under $100.       It arrived in the mail this morning.

All the parts were pulled out (not too many):

And Waddles was jacked up, by lowering the tongue, lowering the stabilizers and then raising the tongue until the wheels are off the ground.   Then the wheels were removed.

What the lift kit does is inserts a spacer above the axle lifting the trailer chassis 2.5/8".   I watched the process, which consisted of removing 2 bolts which hold the axle to the trailer chassis, inserting the new spacers, and putting in 4 new bolts.

Bolts removed and axle lowered

Spacer inserted, no bolts installed yet.

It is very clear to me, after watching this process, that the proper tools help a great deal, and having the strength to muscle tight bolts loose, and tighten new bolts sufficiently is very helpful.  Not to mention understanding how things are put together.  I'm lacking in all these areas.

This is what the spacer adds to the trailer height.

This is what the spacer looks like from under the other side of the trailer.

We had to change the trailer hitch to a higher one, and the trailer tongue still looks a little bit too high, but with weight in the car, that should balance out.    We took her out for a little test run.  First check was to make sure we could still clear the garage door (no problem).     It is a bit higher for me to climb in and out of the trailer, and to use the kitchen off the back, but I am VERY happy about this modification.  I might have to call her Waddles the Puddle Jumper now.

Hummmmm.  Where to go next...  I'm thinking about Red Lodge, Montana, driving over Bear Ear Highway.   Or maybe Leslie Gulch area.  Ideas?