Many tell-tale signs will happen when your trailer axles are damaged or need to be replaced. As a trailer owner, it’s important to keep an eye out for important signs of axle damage so you know when it’s time for trailer axle replacement. If you notice any of these 4 signs, take your trailer in to get inspected right away.
1. Vibrations while driving
If your axle is out of alignment or damaged, you may start to notice abnormal vibrations or rumbling noises while towing your trailer. If the vibrations become severe enough and lead to an uncomfortable ride, making the vehicle and trailer difficult to hail or control, this is a sure sign that your axle is damaged and it’s time for a repair.
2. Alignment
If the tires on your trailer are out of alignment, steering will become more difficult as the alignment becomes worse over time. Your trailer may begin to noticeably pull to one side while towing.
Usually tire and axle misalignment happens after hitting something in the road or driving over a pothole. Driving a trailer with tires that are not aligned will require you to be more mindful and put more energy into towing and steering your trailer and tow vehicle.
The best thing you can do if you notice misalignment is to stop driving your trailer immediately to avoid further damage to your trailer.
3. Rumbling Noises
If you start to hear rumbling sounds coming from under your vehicle every time you drive on bumpy roads or hit a curb, the issue could be your damaged or bent axles. ‘
4. Leaking Grease
According to V&F Auto, grease oozing out from underneath your trailer could also be a sign that one of your axle components is damaged. If the CV boot is damaged, it can leak grease. When a CV boot leaks, it can cause the attached joint to become damaged posing a serious safety hazard. The grease can also be flung onto the chassis or other parts on the underside of the vehicle as the axle turns.
If you notice grease leaking from underneath your trailer, stop driving your trailer immediately. If you are driving when your axle completely fails, it is very unsafe, potentially causing you to lose control of your vehicle and trailer.
Don’t Delay Axle Replacement
Keeping an eye on these few signs will ensure you seek axle replacement before it causes more damage to other components on your trailer. A trailer with bent or broken axles is very unsafe to drive on. A less severe bend should only be driven to a trailer repair shop where they can install new axles. If you need axles quickly, contact BlueSwift Axles for all of your custom axle needs. BlueSwift manufactures axles in only 48 hours, getting you back on the road quickly.