boat traler axle problems

[scott201]

Hi Folks, I'm Scott201, the new guy. I need some advise. I've got a bass tracker boat(2004) and the right side tire is wearing very fast, on the outside. A mechanic tells me that it's hardly ever the axle, probably wheel bearing deal. But I don't feel any thing when I shake the wheel. I did some measuring on the axle and the right side is out by 3/4 of a inch ( is that bad?) I also noticed that the axle has a slight upward bend in the middle. Not from any apparent damage that I can tell. It that the way it's supposed to be?

What is causing my tire to wear so fast? And what can I do to fix it at a small cost to my wallet?

Any help or suggestions would be gratly appraciated, thanks alot

scott210 3-27-07, Hey Guys.....This problem is really bugging me!  My axle shows a apparent natural crown. I did measure the alingment, it's off by 1/2 inch on the problem side. How easy is that to fix, could I do it?  If need be, could I install a new axle myself?

Any other suggestions would be graetly appreciated!! Thanks in advance...scott201

[Team_Dougherty]

If sounds like your axle is bent to me. go to www.northerntool.com and order a new one. An easy change.

[Wayne P.]

Any alignment shop that can align the Ford twin I-beam front axle can align your trailer axle. "Been there, done that".

[cart7t]

Yep, I'd check the axle alignment before you go replacing it.  

[Ranger364]

I would check to see if the wheel is balanced. Unbalanced wheels can cause major greif.

Good fishing,

[Way2slow]

Check out this post and replies, I think that horse got rode pretty good here.  http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1174152630

[Flatfish]

Normally the axle will have an upward crown in them, when loaded it will straighten out. I would check to see if the axle is square under the trailer, sit trailer on some jack stands, remove the tires, measure from the center of the trailer coupling to the front of the axle flange on both sides, this measurement should be the same within 1/8". One problem that I have seen is the center pin in the springs being off center and one of the springs installed backwards(this is only a problem if both ends have eyes), sometimes the center pin is not lined up properly with the spring perch on the axle, measure from the center of the front spring hanger bolt to the front of the axle to determine that. Sit the loaded trailer on a level hard surface and with a framing square check the tires for plumb. Follow your loaded trailer down a nice flat road and see if it is "Dog Tracking"(not directly behind the tow vwhicle) this is a quick check for axle alignment, but nothing beats a ruler. Check Tow In, a couple pieces of plywood of lumber the same width and about 2' long pressed against the tires and measure across the front and rear of the tire, this measurement should be the same, tolerance +or- 1/16"no more than 1/8"