Question about a trailer frame crack... Please gimme your opinions!

[Watson777]

I am looking at a toy hauler to use for snowmobiling but don't want to spend a ton because we only get to use them so many times a year. I found one for really cheap but it has some frame problems. the guy that owned it before overloaded it a lot and then slammed the sh*t outta it getting to a camp site out in the dunes. It has one crack in the frame work where the leaf springs mount up near the rear axle on the right side. Also, the cross beams under the water tank and I think one of the holding tanks are bent about a 10" down away from the tanks because of the abuse. So they arent really even supporting the tanks right now.
So here is the question....... Do you think it is worth it to buy it? I mean if I weld the crack in the frame that will be fine but what about the cross beams? Any opinions and suggestions are greatly appreciated! Thanks

 

[Hardass]

Can you cut the cross beamsa out and replace? If sop if the price is right do it. also remember to fish plate along any cracks and you will be fine.

 

[justadude]

I agree, put the thumb screw to him on the price. Make believe he has basically broken it and it's worth scrap. Find a local welder, metal fab dude. They are normally great guy, know their **** and charge ya what it costs. Could really work out for you!!!

Can you cut the cross beamsa out and replace? If sop if the price is right do it. also remember to fish plate along any cracks and you will be fine.

 

[boone]

I agree with the others... if it is a great deal, and it is otherwise in good shape, buy it. I am a welder myself, and there is nothing that can't be fixed !! Grind out, weld, and plate the cracks. They should be fine. If the cracks are really bad, you may want to put a longer plate over the cracks or even fully box the frame over both axles. For the crossmembers, as said before, either cut them out and replace them or just add in new ones in front of or behind the bent ones to support the tanks.

Make sure to check all of the doors for proper alignment. That will give you an idea if the frame is tweaked really bad. If it is, you might want to take it to a good bodyshop that has a frame machine. They know the best way to straighten a frame without causing more damage. Or if you are brave and have anchors in the floor of your shop, you could do it yourself and save some coin.

Good Luck
Boone

 

[Watson777]

The rear door to the cargo area is a little hard to open. It opens but you have to pull pretty hard. If I do get it and need to reweld cross beam supports into it. What do I use to shield the water tanks etc..... from the heat and spark from the welder? Thanks

 

[NWGooser]

Like everybody has said, if the price is right, anything can be fixed. As far as protecting tanks, etc., remove them. I would do this for a couple reasons; First, if there is visible frame damage, there may be hidden damage as well. Take everything out so you can really look it over. Second, once you weld on the members, you will need to re-coat both sides with a Galvacon or primer/paint or something. The tanks may make it hard to access.
Just an opinion, not fact

 

[WestMont]

Hook on to the trailer and take it for a test drive. While your at it swing by a welding shop or two and have them give you a quote for the repairs.