Is It Common Practice to use Round Stubs in Square Tubing

Question:

I have an older TI Boat trailer - dual axle - appear to be 3500# axles with hydraulic surge brakes 10inch druminch on one axle. A bearing failed and totally ruined the spindle. While trying to determine the correct replacement, it appears they used a axle that is 2 inch OD square and has a 1.5 inch OD round stub stuck in it? Is this common practice to use round stubs in square tubing? Would you recommend replacing with the same, or going to a square stub? As soon as I figure out what is going on, I will be getting bearing kits and likely brake parts. I guess this application could use two different races for the inner bearing, so need to figure that out..

asked by: Gary

Expert Reply:

Some spindles similar to # TRU74FR is going to have the brake mounting flange welded onto it. The Brake mounting flange gets welded to the end of the axle to provide a secure mounting place for brake assemblies. It's a normal setup. It's not uncommon to have a round into a square axle, but you can replacement if you see fit.

expert reply by: Timothy G