Can you replace spindles on a trailer?
Expert Reply: To replace a spindle, the old one would need to be cut off, and the new one welded into place. This is NOT a job for the do-it-yourselfer. The new spindle must be absolutely square with the axle in order to prevent premature tire wear and wheel tracking problems.
When should a trailer spindle be replaced?
If the spindle is damaged then the bearings won’t ride properly and can fail again or it can cause other problems such as uneven or excessive tire wear and ride quality problems. If the spindle is damaged then you can’t really repair it and the whole axle should be replaced.
Are trailer spindles welded on?
Spindles are welded to the axle, so a do-it-yourself replacement may be out of the question for some trailer owners. As you can imagine, lubrication around the spindle is critical to keep the bearings spinning and to prevent the hub from making contact with the spindle’s surface.
What size spindle do I need?
The best way to find out which spindle length you need is by looking up the specs. (The alternative is trial and error…) Spindle length and the resulting chainline have some leeway. If you are within 2-3 mm of the “correct” 43.5 mm or 45 mm, you are doing quite well.
How much does it cost to replace a spindle?
Replacing balusters (also called spindles) typically costs anywhere from $1,200 to $1,600. Putting in a handrail will likely cost anywhere from $700 to $2,500.
Are trailer spindles hardened?
Spindles are not tempered such as spring steel. Spindles only bear weight and all the wear is on the race and bearing which are hardened. It takes time but its fairly easy to lay metal with a wire feed then use a file, maybe a grinder if you lay too much on.
How do you test a trailer spindle?
Assuming your tires are in good shape without any bulges the easiest way to determine if you have a bent spindle is to take a straight edge that is longer than the tire and lay it across the tire parallel with your trailer frame and then measure the distance from the frame to the straight edge in front and back of the …
What causes a spindle to break?
Improper Lubrication: This can lead to increased wear due to friction as well as thermal damage due to higher operating temperatures. The resulting damage to bearings can include rolling element deterioration, raceway deterioration, cage fragmentation, and eventually spindle failure.
How do you get a spindle out of a trailer axle?
Trailer spindles are welded directly to the axle so to remove one it just needs to be cut off completely using a torch or saw. Then to replace the spindle such as with the EZ Lube # TRU37FR that you were looking at it’s extremely important that it be done by a certified welder who is experienced with this type of job.