Expert Reply: If a spindle is bent you cannot bend it back in place. Replacing the axle would be the best route.
Can you fix a bent spindle?
We will check the tubes to make sure they are straight. If they are bent, we can straighten them. While on the lathe, if the spindle end is damaged, this is when it gets replaced. Once the spindle end is built, we cut off the damaged spindle and weld on the new replacement.
How do I know if my trailer spindle is bad?
Look for an scarring, gouges, discoloration, or scoring on the spindle. If the spindle is damaged then the bearings won’t ride properly and can fail again or it can cause other problems such as uneven or excessive tire wear and ride quality problems.
Can a bent trailer axle be fixed?
Fortunately, replacing the axle is not necessary unless it is extensively damaged. With welding skills and attention to detail, axle repair is possible. It is, however, important to weld the axle after straightening it in a step-by-step manner to prevent the axle from warping.
How do you know if your trailer spindle is bent?
Assuming your tires are in good shape without any bulges the easiest way to determine if you have a bent spindle is to take a straight edge that is longer than the tire and lay it across the tire parallel with your trailer frame and then measure the distance from the frame to the straight edge in front and back of the …
Can you replace spindles on a trailer?
Spindles are welded to the axle, so a do-it-yourself replacement may be out of the question for some trailer owners. There are very few bolt-on spindles available; in fact, most spindles are welded to the axle tube. Replacing a spindle requires breaking the existing weld and then welding the new spindle in place.
Is it safe to drive with a bent spindle?
If the bend is slight, you can drive, at least for a little while. However, understand that you will probably feel a lot of vibration, and since the bend prevents the axle from turning smoothly, it will eventually cause damage to other components, such as the CV joint.
How do you test a trailer spindle?
Do I need to replace my spindle?
As long as the spindle end is not split or metal is missing, the end can be welded up, machined down, and rethreaded. A spindle that has had excessive heat from a burned bearing will be damaged to the point that it needs replacing.
What is a spindle on a trailer?
Spindles are the innermost part of the trailer wheel and axle assembly. They provide a surface for the wheel bearings and wheel hub to rotate around.
