Wheel slid back a few inches?!

myredracer wrote:
The springs on the left of the U-bolts look like they are bent? If so, this has been going on for a while. Did you buy this new or pre-owned? Maybe someone worked on it previously? Either way, the first thing I would be checking is the tightness of all the U-bolts and positioning of all the axles.

I would either disassemble yourself and inspect or take it to a frame and axle shop. The springs may need replacing along with new U-bolts. Good time to check the spring bushings too. U-bolts should always be replaced if removed. If someone has ever had the U-bolts out and you don't know what they did, I would replace all of them. The U-bolts should not allow the axle to slip if they are tightened correctly or maybe something is defective.

The photo:

Thanks for posting the photo.. where did you find the link on their page? I'm still not seeing it.

We bought the trailer new - original owners. I think the bend on the left is the one that's supposed to be there but because everything slid to the right, the U has been flattened and made everything look screwy. I read online that the u-bolts are a one time install and after undoing them, they need to be replaced. I'm debating whether I should replace just the one, both on that axle, or all four. Either way, I think I'll have a shop do the installation. It seemed easy enough but I don't want to mess anything up and cause a safety issue or more money later.