This guide answers the following question – How does Rust Effect Your Trailer Axles?
Whether you’re new to hauling or you’ve been building trailers for years, you’ve likely heard what curse rust is for trailer axles.
How Does Rust Effect Your Trailer Axles?
It’s true that rusty axles are not fun to deal with, but with proper care and prevention, you can keep the plague of rust at bay.
Rust Can Spell the End for Trailer Axles
Left untreated, rust can spread to other parts of your axles, breaking them down part by part and weakening your axles. Axle springs can develop rust as well, impacting your trailer’s overall performance. Unchecked rust can ultimately diminish the amount of life you get out of your trailer axles. Aside from costing you the money for repairs or replacements, you face a significant loss of revenue due to downtime if your rusty axles reach the point of failure.
Rust Prevention is The Key
Prevention is everything when it comes to rusting trailer axles. Exposing your trailer to wet weather and extreme temperature changes can do a number on your axles. Whenever possible, keep your trailer stored inside a garage or shed for protection. Coating your spring or torsion axles with grease is a great way to provide protection. Many axle grease products are moisture-resistant and prevent water from accumulating. As part of the regular inspection of your axles, apply a layer of axle grease to keep them well coated. You may also want to invest in a trailer hub cover to help keep your axles, and other parts, dry. Remember, the more you invest in prevention, the less you’ll spend on repairs and replacements.
If Rust Prevention Fails, Act Fast
As soon as you notice rust on your trailer axles, act quickly to resolve it. Surface rust can be handled by sandblasting or using a wire brush, depending on the amount present. If you can remove surface rust, and the axle parts are still intact, you can apply rust-proof paint to protect it. This would also be a good time to add a layer of axle grease as added protection from moisture. Unfortunately, when your investigation reveals rust that is flaking and falling off, you will most likely need to replace the axle. If this is the case, rest assured that we have you covered.
Contact BlueSwift Axles
BlueSwift Axles offers custom trailer axles that are built to last. Our experts can offer guidance on selecting the right axles for your trailer, as well as insight into caring for them so that rust won’t plague your purchase. Browse our selection of trailer axles and parts to find the solution right for you!
See our video below for more information on BlueSwift Axles and the solutions we can provide for you.