Bent tandem axle on 26' R-Vision bumper pull

[kgrummiitt]

Took a right turn too sharp and dropped trailer onto a cement culvert, which substantially bent forward tandem (2 feet in on right). Tire is bowed out at top pretty good (about 10 degrees). Drove it one mile back to our ranch and parked it.

I figured I'd just replace it, but then thought about saving a nickle and wondered if I could have an axle straightened?

Also if I were to replace this lightweight 2600# axle, might I be wise to go up to a 3500#, and can you mix a 2600# with a 3500#, or at that point should I replace both. Trailer is 4000# and max weight is 5200#.

Not sure which axle has brakes front or rear, hopefully it's the rear.

Front axle is the bent one.

Thanks for any input.

Kim

[wingnut60]

You should have brakes on BOTH axles. It is easy to replace axles, but finding one that fits exactly as the old ones might be difficult. Are you anywhere near a real axle/spring shop--they would know what is best to do and how to do it.

It is important to have the centerline of the wheels stay where they are--so the distance between the mounting flanges for the brakes plates will have to be the same for a new axle as the old one. An axle shop is your best bet to get it done right. And you shouldn't ever reuse the u-bolts on an axle--get new ones whichever way you do the repair.