Bent axel?

[Davem1754]

I broke one of my leafsprings 2 years ago, repaired it, but now I noticed both tires are bald on the inner side.
What is the proper way to check for a bent axel, and is there any repairs/adjustments that can be made?
My trailer is the type with leafsprings shackled to the frame, not ubolts holding it.
Thanks.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Bent axel?

My trailer is the type with leafsprings shackled to the frame, not ubolts holding it.

Ayuh,.... So how is the Axle attached to the Springs,..??..??

It Sounds like the Axle is Bowed from being Overloaded.....
While it can be straightened with chains,+ Hyd. Jacks,...
Replacement is a Better Option, because straightened axles tend to just rebend....

 

[Davem1754]

Re: Bent axel?

My mistake, ubolts do hold the axel to the springs.
Thanks for the reply

 

[fishmen111]

Re: Bent axel?

As Bond-o said, replacement is best. However, if it is not a drop axle, you can rotate the axle 180 degrees for short term use. If it did not bend from overloading, then it may be corroding (weakening) from the inside.

 

[External Combustion]

Re: Bent axel?

Dave the simple way to check is use a level with a verticle bubble. If the wheels lean inward or just one does, then you have a bent axle. If the wheels lean outward just a few degrees and is even from side to side then you are OK. If the wheels don't lean at all, you are OK.

You can bend the axle to correct bad angles, but you must check to see if the problem was caused by overloading, big potholes in the road, or the axle rusting away. If you cannot do this yourself then a replacment axle is generally cheaper. Order one that has no brakes, but has the flanges. Put your brakes on the replacement axle and save considerable dollars.

 

[fishmen111]

Re: Bent axel?

However, if it is not a drop axle, you can rotate the axle 180 degrees for short term use.

Please disregard this suggestion of mine. I have done it in the past, but when questioned by someone wiser than I, I realized it is not a good solution.