Very common, unfortunately, a know bad weld exists on the early road armor trailers.
The biggest issue was with the single axle trailers for the 188’s and the 519’s but also with the tandem trailers.
This could save a life. As “new to me” owners should be aware of this important safety issue.
2004-2010 years mainly affected.
Broken Trailer Axle on this Ranger 520 bass boat.
Check the welds on the axles see if there is any visible cracking or separation.
This guy hit a pothole while towing his boat to the lake.
2004 and it continued right up to the time that we were dropped in late 2010.
Broken Weld Plates on 2006 Z21
Need to inspect the shackles and links!
Have the cracks welded up and repaired if you see any before your next trip.
Pictures of an under filled weld and what to watch for.
an under filled weld
Ranger should have sent a notice to all owners of trailers in the affected years a detailed description on how to remove the road armor coating and a how-to for a proper inspection procedure. If not comfortable performing this inspection to take the trailer to the dealer or a competent welder.
Another under filled weld.
an under filled weld
Not everyone has the skills to inspect welds
Some symptoms could be:
- tires wearing uneven
- hubs failing.
My advice is to have the welds checked on your trailers now before there is someone seriously injured.
I do want the owners to be aware of a potential problem and something to check before your next trip to the lake.
Seen this magnetic lock-out key for your trailer brakes?