Is this manufactured this way?

[jflo]

Recently purchased a used mid america center lift pontoon trailer. The trailer looked almost brand new and everything seemed to be in great shape but obviously I didn't look it over as well as I thought. The front beam that has the centerlift crank looks to be ballooned out. I'm at a loss on how something like this happens naturally so I'm wondering if it was designed like this? It just so happens to be expanded to the size of the bracket that holds the pin. The red lines are what the width should be if it wasn't ballooned out.

Thanks for any help!

 

[Michiman]

I personally can’t tell from your picture, but I seriously doubt that it’s manufactured that way. Does it work properly? You might want to contact the manufacturer.

 

[DVW]

Looks like deformation from frozen water. Check weld at base. That is location for the highest normal stress. If no cracks and it still functions you are probably good to go.

 

[Potomacbassin’]

I'd peek into the tubing if possible, maybe internal rust?

 

[jflo]

Thanks I think you are correct after looking at pictures of similar damage. There is no damage to the welds but there is a crack i found in the tube midway up after pushing on the paint. Any opinions on if this gets welded closed on whether or not it *should* be fine.

I also took the plastic cap off and seen that there was sitting water. I'm going to drill a drain hole in the bottom. Seems like a poor design to not have a weep hole but maybe they thought any pressure would pop the plastic plug on top..

Thanks!

 

[DVW]

Cannot tell with your photo but if location of crack is within the middle third of tube you should have sufficient structure. Appearance is a different matter. Just up to you.