semi trailer slider rail fix for egg shaped holes ??

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by mojoblues, Sep 29, 2014.

  1. mojoblues

    mojoblues Bobtail Member

    28
    0
    Jun 18, 2007
    0
    I have a 1998 53' Wabash dry van..the bushings are still good...its in decent shape except the slider rails have wear inside the holes making them a bit egg shaped. Not all holes are affected. Mainly the ones in the front that are used a lot more often. I hear that could make the trailer dog walk and cause more wear on tires etc.

    I had heard of people taking another new slider rail and welding it over the top of the existing rail to fix this problem. if that would work for a cheap fix it would be the way to go.
    The trailer shop told me of course the best fix is to replace both rails. But that could cost about $2,000.00 or more. So forget that!

    I was wondering if anyone carries replacement rails that could fix this. Maybe you know of a shop that does this and I could contact them.
    I was also considering welding some steel washers with the same size holes on each of the egg shaped holes. who knows if that will work
    anyone have a way to fix this..any ideas??
    its an old trailer so I don't want to sink too much money in it

    Thanks
     
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  3. asavage1576

    asavage1576 Light Load Member

    62
    36
    Mar 18, 2013
    Dallas,Tx
    0
    Did a lot of trailer work when I first started as a mechanic. Yes replacing the rails is the "correct" way to do it. Although you can use some plate steel, bore holes in it and weld it over the damaged holes. Just have to make sure you have clearance so that when pins are retracted to slide the tandems that the plate doesn't hit anything.
     
  4. jbatmick

    jbatmick Road Train Member

    2,184
    2,441
    Dec 1, 2009
    hastings, Fl
    0
    Ditto on the way above poster says to fix. Works just fine.
     
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