Fixing the Trailer

 We have a utility trailer we purchased in the early 1990's and use fairly often. It is quite handy and is used for all kinds of tasks from moving lawn mowers to transporting firewood.

You can see in this image there is no space left between the tire and the fender and this is only 1/2 of a cord of wood.

It has been reliable, but it is kind of like the man who says he has been using Grandpa's ax for decades even though it is on its third head and fifth handle.

The trailer has had new deck boards, a new hitch coupler assembly, all new lights, new axle and wheel bearings, several sets of tires and just recently needed new springs. They no longer had the strength to support a load of firewood.

Replacements were ordered and during installation it was found one of the spring supports was worn out and a new one had to be welded in place. This is not the kind of repair you want to do in your driveway in the winter, but we had little choice and did so anyway.

The funny thing is the local deer herd is fascinated by any and all activity in the driveway and come to see what ever we are doing.

One of our neighbors has a truck mounted welder and came to do the job. We made sure to isolate the trailer from the tow vehicle as electric arc welding can play havoc with automotive electrical systems.

We used the tractor bucket to lift the trailer and place on wood stumps for access to the area needing welding.

All clamped in place and ready to weld

The repair turned out well and the trailer is back in service and ready for the next job.