Bent Axle Question
Hi folks.
I bent my axle and a new one is on order. I also bent one of the leaf spring brackets, the part that is welded to the trailer frame that supports leaf spring, it’s the rear bracket and both sides of the bracket are bent inward toward the middle of the trailer. It’s only bent about 1/8”. When I swap out my axle I’d like to straighten this. My local trailer shop said, just straighten it with a hammer by tapping on it a bit and you’ll be fine. They said this wouldn’t hurt it or weaken the bracket any worth worrying about. I’m not a metal expert and I’m still wondering if this will weaken it or should I heat it and bend it. Again it’s barely bent. Will it even make a difference? Should I simply leave it alone? I don’t think I need a new bracket welded on if this one can be straightened. And yes I see the gas line. This will definitely be removed before heating. Thanks for the opinions. They’re much appreciated!
I bent my axle and a new one is on order. I also bent one of the leaf spring brackets, the part that is welded to the trailer frame that supports leaf spring, it’s the rear bracket and both sides of the bracket are bent inward toward the middle of the trailer. It’s only bent about 1/8”. When I swap out my axle I’d like to straighten this. My local trailer shop said, just straighten it with a hammer by tapping on it a bit and you’ll be fine. They said this wouldn’t hurt it or weaken the bracket any worth worrying about. I’m not a metal expert and I’m still wondering if this will weaken it or should I heat it and bend it. Again it’s barely bent. Will it even make a difference? Should I simply leave it alone? I don’t think I need a new bracket welded on if this one can be straightened. And yes I see the gas line. This will definitely be removed before heating. Thanks for the opinions. They’re much appreciated!
