M101A2 Question

[Theschist]

I recently found a M101A2 in excellent shape for $400! Couldn't pass it up. However, my JK rolls on 35" tires and my plan was to swap out the military axle for a Dexter with a hub to match the Jeep. Thereby using the same wheels and tires as on the Jeep. Can I safely squeeze my 315/70/17 tires under this trailer, or should I not even bother. Plans for the future include some form of tentage, and basic camping storage. The trailer will also double as a canoe/kayak carrier and bike carrier.

 

[Gallowbraid]

I swapped over to a Dexter able to match the jeep I had at the time. Fairly straight forward process once I wrapped my head around the measurements. I have dimensions and pictures in my build thread: here.

 

[Theschist]

GallowBraid: I was drooling over your build. It has definitely inspired me. (Also dig the Tacoma-but can't give up a paid off vehicle that rocks). I was going to stick with the stock wheels, but I am already running 1.5" spacers on the JK for clearance for the 35"s. did you plan on 2" spacers with the 59" HF to HF?

Second question everyone, has anyone used a Truck Tent made for an 8' bed as a temp solution on their M101A2? Until I can get the resources and time to do a proper build, I still want to use the trailer for some light camping ( I just cant convince the wife to sleep in a tent on the ground).

 

[Gallowbraid]

I did plan the 2" spacers to clear the dust covers on the Dexter EZ lube axles. Stock jeep rims won't clear the dust covers unless you modify the covers using a hammer and some gentle persuasion. Steel rims or aftermarket rims will be different, have to check the center bore on the rim.

 

[tarditi]

I was going to do something similar with my M100 trailer and realized that it was a lot of expense and hassle for little more than cosmetic benefit.
I could have swapped axles or used wheel adapters...

I can drag my trailer with a flat if need be (it's light enough), I have fix-a-flat and a viair compressor; and a spare for my jeep.
If I need to carry more spares for an extended trip, I'll just get more and bring them, but it's not important to have them all match for me.

 

[Gallowbraid]

On the m101a2's it's a huge weight savings to drop the surge brake equipped axle, particularly if the surge brakes no longer function. Removing the axle, hubs, brake assembly, master cylinder and lunette/pintle assembly comes out to a couple hundred pounds in savings. Putting a Dexter EZ Lube axle on saves weight, gives better braking and cuts down on maintenance. I like being able to use my brake controller to manually activate the brakes and ease the trailer down off an obstacle while off road.

 

[dstock]

On the m101a2's it's a huge weight savings to drop the surge brake equipped axle, particularly if the surge brakes no longer function. Removing the axle, hubs, brake assembly, master cylinder and lunette/pintle assembly comes out to a couple hundred pounds in savings. Putting a Dexter EZ Lube axle on saves weight, gives better braking and cuts down on maintenance. I like being able to use my brake controller to manually activate the brakes and ease the trailer down off an obstacle while off road.

+1 on all of the above!