Is It Okay to Pull Utility Trailer with Slight Spindle Damage?

Updated 05/30/2019 | Published 05/28/2019

Question:

Is it OK to drive Utility trailer with the slight spindle damage? Or does the spindle need to be replaced/repaired?

asked by: Kim

Expert Reply:

That is kind of a difficult question to answer without seeing the extent of damage, so I really appreciate the photo. The slight wear on your spindle where the outer bearing is won't be an issue so as long as the spindle is not bent or there isn't further damage. I do recommend taking some sand paper or steel wool and just knocking down any raised edges to ensure you are getting a clean surface to work with. If there is more of a step than what is visually represented when you feel it, then you may want to consider replacing it. If it is just the slight abrasions you won't need to replace it, but you will want to make sure you monitor your bearing grease to ensure no future failure.

If there is more damage than the photo represents, then I've linked the page to your spindle options. You will want to use a digital caliper to ensure the correct replacement and you will want to have a professional welder do the installation as the alignment is extremely important to get right. I've attached a photo to help you with the measurement locations if a replacement is necessary.

expert reply by: Jason S