Spindle on Older Boat Trailer Has Gouges in it, Can it Still be Used?
Updated 09/30/2009 | Published 09/27/2009
Question:
I just want to tell you guys how much I like etrailer.com. I just bought an oooold boat and trailer both apparently built in 1969!, and have made one small order for trailer parts. The trailer is for a lightweight 400 lb sailboat. Im now rebuilding the bearings, since I doubt it has ever been done. Your video about how to get rid of the grease seal has gotten me past my first hurdle. OK, getting to the point: I have spindles welded to a metal beam U-profile that runs between the wheels. One of the spindles has 3 gouges, maybe 1/8 wide, 3/4 long and 1/16 deep. My question: do I need to replace this spindle, and if so, is it possible to do without welding in a new spindle?
asked by: Chris H
Expert Reply:
If the gouges you describe are not on a part of the spindle that will contact and damage the bearings, you can carefully use a metal file and smooth them out. If you need to replace the spindle, you will have to remove the old one and weld a new one in place, unfortunately there is no way around that.
