Replace axle? What to look for.

Age alone is no reason to replace the axle. New things break just like old things do. The metallurgy of your old axle is likely of a higher quality than what a new axle would be. Check your axle and spindle to make sure they aren't bent, cracked, or severely corroded, and that the bearing surfaces of the spindle aren't rusted, pitted or worn. Surface rust on the axle means nothing. Since you admittedly have very little mechanical knowledge, take it to someone you trust to be inspected. They should be happy to tell you all about its condition.

I understand your desire to learn, but unless you have an experienced person looking over your shoulder, with your lack of knowledge about what you are doing, this is not a job you should take on yourself.

Thank you both. That's what I needed to know. It's beyond my skill set. I appreciate the information, though. I always did plan to take in for inspection; I just didn't want to be totally clueless.

I have seen this site. I think I read every page. The flexiride is the axle I would be getting. For brakes added and shipping it would be $600. Is that cheap?

If you want to learn, do a Youtube search for "inspecting trailer axle". Lots of videos.

TRW
Usually a good shop can straighten a bent axle, You can replace it with a round tube axle of the proper size and load capacity but if your axle has dropped spindles the new straight axle will make trailer set higher off the ground. Also if the axle mounts above the springs make sure you will have proper travel to allow springs to work.

Thanks. You are correct that some vintage trailers had arched axles. I discovered that by contacting a local restoration shop. Does anyone know the specs on the arch so i can tell the diference?