11-13-2006
I cut off my tonge today. No, not my tongue, the trailer's tongue.
Remember this?
This is what happened to the other half. The tongue hitch was bent about 1 inch off center. The measurement from the center of the hitch to the centers of the axles is a critical measurement. Luckily, the Dexter Airflex system has adjusters built in for alignment. Simply loosen the U-bolts and use the two adjusters per side to move the axle forward or back.
I started off using a cutting torch but that got too hot for the wiring that runs through the frame. I protected the wiring within rigid conduit but the flame would eventually damaged the wires.
I threw open the garage doors and fired up the 2-stroke chop saw. I cut away all the metal that wasn't welded to the tongue and then ground away the welds.
I own a MIG welder but these welds are too critical for my skill level. My friend, the welder, has a portable unit that will give the penetration needed for these important welds.
