Think I need a new axle

MESSMAKER · Aug 29, 2010

Had some problems with tire wear. I checked it out and it looks like my front axle is bent near one wheel so I plan to replace it(3500lb idler straight axle). Where do you suggest. I plan on getting one with hubs on it so I'll be ready to go. Looks like $250 locally and about $100 less on line. Where You guys had luck with.

Skyco · Aug 29, 2010

You didn't ask but- if it is an idler and needs replacing I'd buy one with brakes. I refuse to own a tandem without brakes on both axles..but that's me. I like stopping even more than going

I've bought axles from a local place that beats anything I've seen online...wouldn't be much help to you though.

Diamondpilot · Aug 29, 2010

My local TSC and Rural King has axles in stock. I have also made my own by buying the DOM pipe at my steel supply house, put the arch in via the shop press and then buy the axle stubs and spring perches at TSC. Thats not usually cost effective but has to be done when you need special width.

Chris

firedog · Aug 29, 2010

I've pretty good luck buying from these folks.
Trailer Parts Superstore - 3500 lb. Round Tube Trailer Axles

jbooth · Aug 30, 2010

Can you get a hydraulic pipe bender on it to straighten? I would be surprised if a good alignment shop couldn't tweek it to correct alignment. Probably wouldn't even have to remove the axle and save you the labor of installing new axle.

Diamondpilot · Aug 30, 2010

jbooth said:
Can you get a hydraulic pipe bender on it to straighten? I would be surprised if a good alignment shop couldn't tweek it to correct alignment. Probably wouldn't even have to remove the axle and save you the labor of installing new axle.

I have done this by going to a HD truck and trailer shop. The kind that does semi and dump truck, ect. It cost $70 per axle to have them straitened and aligned. They do it on a frame rack and use hydraulics and chain to pull it strait.

Chris

Soundguy · Aug 30, 2010

my tsc has dexter brake and idler (hubs) installed on axles in stock for SOME sizes.

soundguy

MESSMAKER · Aug 30, 2010

I called the best local frame guy and he said it can be done. His fee was $75 per hour. He said if I could get a new one for $200 or less, It was the way to go. It was $300-$350 at the local trailer shop. ABC Trailer in Alabama is sending me one with hubs and U-bolt kit for $140 to my door. I love to support the local guys(I would have went $200) but over double is a lot to ask.

Diamondpilot · Aug 30, 2010

MESSMAKER said:
I called the best local frame guy and he said it can be done. His fee was $75 per hour. He said if I could get a new one for $200 or less, It was the way to go. It was $300-$350 at the local trailer shop. ABC Trailer in Alabama is sending me one with hubs and U-bolt kit for $140 to my door. I love to support the local guys(I would have went $200) but over double is a lot to ask.

I agree. You made a smart move.

I try to buy local all the time but sometimes they make it hard. We just picked up a generator for a boat today. Locally $1200.00 plus 7% tax. On the net I got it sent 3 day UPS ground from North Carolina for $639 to my office with no tax.

Chris

schmism · Aug 30, 2010

on the support the local guy.... i try i really do.

i needed the water valve for my fridge ice maker. so i called up the local place and asked about the part... said they could get it next day from the warehouse over in St louis.

no problem.... the next day before i left i jumped on and googled the part number to find what i could buy it off the internet for....Amazon had it for about $23. so I printed it out and took it with me.

The local guy wanted (sit down) $76 for the same part. I was like dude we got to do better. I could go as far as $40 to take the one in my hand out the front door with me now. Wouldnt budge. I was like ok dude, your loss. Spun on my heal and walked out. got home after running some more errands and 3 clicks later it was on its way to my door for like $30. :confused2: