Axle Alignment - Midland SIDE DUMP GRAVEL TRAILER Operator's Manual

5.2.4

AXLE ALIGNMENT

A standard axle is used as the main transverse
structural member to transmit loads between the
trailer frame and the surface contacting components.
All running gear components are attached to or part
of the axle assembly.
Although there is very little that can go wrong with
the axle itself, loose, bent or damaged attaching
components can cause the axle to go out of
alignment. This misalignment will be found during the
regularly scheduled 25,000 mile inspection. However,
axle misalignment shows itself most commonly by
accelerated tire wear and dogtracking by the trailer.
Visually check the tire wear when checking air
pressure. The driver should identify these handling
characteristics to service personnel or correction.
To check axle alignment, follow this procedure:
1. Select a working area that is level, with a
compacted surface and is large enough to
provide access from all sides.
2. Move the trailer forward and backward
several times to remove any binding from the
components.
3. Stop the trailer when moving in the forward
direction without using trailer brakes. This will
give the components a forward bias with no
binding.
4. Unhook the trailer and support on the landing
gear at the normal highway height and parallel to
the ground.
5. Install a commercially available axle extender
on each axle or remove the wheels to prevent
any components from interfering with the
measurements.
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