Rejoin a trailer axle

[warby12]

Repair cut trailer axle

Hi, I'm new so go easy

I am building a small trailer using some parts from a larger trailer so it is fairly chunky strength wise. The old axle was 2" solid square which I cut in half to help mocking up the replacement as it was too long. Now I'm wondering if I can reuse it? The two old bits together are now too short (about 5ins) Could I sleeve it with something? Or could I cut off the stubs and weld them into the endo of some bigger square tube ? I only have an arc welder currently but I am an ok welder. Thanks for any help

 

[Terrapin]

It is quite acceptable to sleeve the axle with square tubing of a suitable ID.

 

[warby12]

Thanks very much, I hoped so. Now to locate the tubing! Have a great day

 

[shenion]

Have not seen a 2" solid, most above 1" I see are tube type.

If you cut it in the middle and sleeve it with a heavy tube (2.5" x 1/4") it will probably be fine as the highest stress is at the ends. I'd use a long sleeve and angle the ends. Drill some holes in the tube and plug weld it also.

 

[warby12]

Thanks shenion, yes I will plug weld it too and use nice thick wall. I have heard all the stress is at the ends. Might seem crazy as axles are cheap but the thick ones aren't that cheap and if I go down a size I'll need new shackles and all. I just want is to get this on the road under my budget. I will revisit the springs, axle etc next year and replace the lot.

 

[warby12]

You're right shenion. The axle is 45 mm my mistake sorry

 

[aametalmaster]

Have not seen a 2" solid, most above 1" I see are tube type.

30 years ago when i was in the trailer business there were zillions of 2" solid square axles and they were all under horse trailers. Just a thought...Bob