.
Yes. Damaged axle beams (at hub ends) could be from trailer being over loaded. Definitely "average load" your TT as if going on a camping trip and visit the local road scales - to get it weighed. Then compare its average loaded number against its GVWR (on its identification sticker). For more details, surf:
- click here - Average loaded TT could be under GVWR number but could have under sized axles under the RV/TT as well. To save costs, many RV/TT builders are sizing minimum axles based on 13% tongue weight "subtraction". This subtraction is ok if we lived in a perfect white board world - where trailers are evenly loaded, one doesn't pull up hill and one doesn't pull across double railway tracks. Very bad "assumptions" that is creating more and more RV/TT axle problems in real life. IMO, the 13% toque weight subtraction method should NEVER be used in real life.
IMO, one should take the TT's GVWR. Let's say its 6,800 lbs. If TT has 2 x axles, let's use TT GVWR of 7,000 lbs (for easy math). By using simple math, the TT's axles would be 3,500 lbs each. And, their leaf spring sets are 3,500 lbs each as well. IMO, very simple math - for minimum build specs.
For many TT makers, they would use 6,800 lbs and subtract 13% for its distributed tongue weight and resulting number would be 6,800-883 (which is 13% of 6,800 lbs) = 5,917 lbs. Based on perfect white board diagram world, the TT Factory (and their lawyers) would install 2 x 3,000 lbs axle (with 3,000 lbs leaf springs) under the RV/TT. Thus, saving them build dollars (and still legally win during a law suit battle).
In above paragraphs, 1,000 lbs variance doesn't sound like much. But 1,000 lbs stronger means the difference of less weird tire wear. And, less suspension compression - that can hit another part (to create bends / cracks when it hits). As a minimum, the 13% subtraction should never be used in real life.
For me (when rebuilding trailer suspensions), I always apply the 80% under all leaf spring trailer suspensions. If trailer is rated for 7,000 lbs, I like to use 20% above. For example, 7,000 x 1.2 = axle and leaf springs built for 8,400 lbs trailer (even if the trailer's GVWR is max 6,800 lbs). Or, 2 x 4,200 lbs axles and 4,200 lbs leaf springs on each axle as well. Thus, allowing my trailers to have 20% buffer above minimum - for those double railway tracks and sudden deep bumps in CG's long grass.
If getting new axles and leaf springs installed, do build "20% above factory minimum build" as well. Even if you have to pay a variance (next size up from factory) cost difference out of your own pocket.
For me, I would replace existing damaged axles with 20% next size up replacements. Especially if I plan to keep the TT for many years...
