Replacement axle question.

wing_zealot wrote:

Just who is the "they" you are referring to? There are 3 people involved here.
1) The axle manufacturer welded the spring perches to the axle.
2) The trailer frame manufacturer welded the spring shackles to the trailer's frame.
3) All the installer of the new axle did was remove a few bolts, swap out the axle, and re-install the bolts. Any teenager with the right wrenches could take the old bolts out and put them back in (even torque them correctly).

So who is the incompetent "they" guy you are inferring to?

Well, you are right, many people could be responsible. Is the OP that laid down the money 1? If I make a a frame, I make sure the frame is square, hangers are same distance from ball. If I build a axle, I make sure the spring perches are same distance from center. (Yes, I have done both). And if I install any part, I make sure the part is right. If I bought the parts for job, and the axle rides off center, I would be checking as to why. Is the axle made wrong? Get ahold of supplier for replacement. Is it the frame that is the issue? (OP stated bent axle. Is anybody sure the force that bent axle did not do more harm?) Point that out to owner, just to make sure it is not my donkey that gets the bite.

fj12ryder wrote:
Actually I can't see any harm with a 1/2" short on one side, as long as the axle is parallel to the other axle and straight and true. The tires aren't going to care whether they're directly in line with the one in front of it. No reason to think there would be any tire wear at all. It's way different from front end of a car/truck. Different story if the axles is incorrectly aligned, or bent.

You are right, no issue if the axles are parallel. What I see as the issue is if installed offset, how can we be sure they are parallel?
Did anybody take note of my first take?

First, it is normal for axles to walk side to each as you turn. I would think if you stopped to check while going in straight line both axles should be centered.