Time for Welding

Off to the Welding Shop

Having exposed the trailer frame, we were able to assess what needed to be fixed.  The brake drums clearly had "something" rolling around in them.  Upon removal of the drum, I found the brake pad adjustment mechanism had failed, and parts had been rolling around for some time...getting a sort of polishing. Remember those rock tumblers you used to see as a kid that would convert ragged chunks of unattractive slag into the Hope Diamond?   That's pretty much what was going on inside the brake drums, except with asbestos and steel.  Nothing you'd hang on a necklace.

So, we towed the trailer over to DFW Welding Services, where Tim assured us that everything could be fixed...and that he could even add on a 2" receiver hitch.

Before...

Overview

Back of the brake drum, and shote of drop axle.

Not much better looking from this angle...

After...

Tim and his team did nice work for us, although our project seemed to get placed into the "low priority" bucket.  Here's some shots of the stuff he fixed up for us.

Everybody could use a new Rear End...our trailer was no exception.  The previous owner had extended the frame to allow for a utility box on the back end (yes...junk in the trunk).  However, the work was pretty shoddy.  DFW Welding Services fixed it up added a reinforcement, and a 2" receiver hitch.

Close up of new rear bumper and support members.

Here, the axle has been removed and a new outrigger has been fabricated and attached to the frame.

Tim and team fixed up the formerly bent bar that supported the CREE step.

Fixing a crack in the frame.  Gusset plates were added for strength.