17' Series Suspension set up 17.56

[Nath69]

Hi everyone.

New to the site but it has been a useful tool for research and opinions.

The wife and I are looking at buying a second hand 17.56-2 as we have 3 kids and the old off-road camper trailer just takes too long to set up and pack up each time.

I like the Outback version for clearance but have seen some standard ones with the axles underslung. What types of suspension did the 17.56 come with back in 2011? From all I have seen, it looks like beam axles only for both models.
Is there much difference in chassis construction between the OB and standard?

Many Thanks

Cheers
Nathan

 

[dagree]

Hi and welcome to the forum @Nath69
Both 2011 versions were supplied with beam axles..... The independent coil suspension only cam out this year.
The chassis on the outback is 6" x 2" main beams and the standard (Tourer) has 4" x 2" beams.

 

[mfexpanda]

Hi and welcome to the forum @Nath69
Both 2011 versions were supplied with beam axles..... The independent coil suspension only cam out this year.
The chassis on the outback is 6" x 2" main beams and the standard (Tourer) has 4" x 2" beams.

I think the outback has 125mm not 150 mm but I could be wrong .
Plus the OB has bigger brakes heavier springs and shocks

 

[Brettmc]

The outback " A"frame is 125 mm main chassis is 150 mm ,there was a simplicity independent suspension on the 17.56 model as I nearly added it to my list of options but could not justify the extra cost.

 

[mfexpanda]

The outback " A"frame is 125 mm main chassis is 150 mm ,there was a simplicity independent suspension on the 17.56 model as I nearly added it to my list of options but could not justify the extra cost.

Ah yes you are right ! About the sizes . Thanks

 

[dagree]

I got the above from a brochure I had in the drawer...... But you got me thinking @mfexpanda so went and measured ours.
125mm A-Frame but the main beams (Running front to back) are 150mm. Maybe earlier models were 125?

 

[dagree]

OOPS..... Got beaten to it whilst out measuring

 

[Nath69]

Thanks for the reply everyone, such a helpful forum.
Looks to be my mind is made up to go the Outback version. They do look better too I think and we enjoy camping in some remote areas as opposed to caravan parks where the clearance will help with access.
Has anyone had any issues with the beam axles on the Outback such as bending or catching on obstacles?
Would my 2007 diesel Pathfinder tow one easily enough? It has the genuine tow bar so may go air bags as opposed to weight distribution setup.

Thanks all