This week was the most productive week we have had in the entirety of our project. What we accomplished this week was finishing our goal of having the bottom frame of the trailer standing on its own. To complete this goal we needed to install the axles, the leaf springs, the jack stand, and the tires.
First we started off the week by picking up the axles that we ordered previously. We then took them to the shop we work at and began their installation. Before the axles could be put on, we welded on the suspension hangers onto the bottom side of the trailer. After, we assembled the leaf springs together and attached them to the hangers. Before we could work further, we had to flip the trailer so that it sat right-side up to attach the axles. Working with an engine hoist and tractor, we were able to flip the trailer and put it on top of jack stands to elevate the trailer. We then put the axles under the trailer and with the U bolts that we purchased with the axles we attached the axles to the leaf springs. We double checked our measurements and with the help of our mentor we made sure the axles would align straight together to ensure the safety of the trailer. We finished the process with the axles by attaching the tires of the trailer and welding on the jack to the front of the trailer.
What we did well this week was being extremely efficient. We accomplished all of our goals for this week and did it in a very timely manner. Instead of not being able to completed our goals, like we have in the past, we were actually able to finish what we wanted to. We worked very hard and diligently with the time we had.
What we need to work on is being patient. Attaching the axles onto the trailer is difficult at times and they need to be almost perfect so the trailer rides correctly and it is safe. We began to get very frustrated with some parts and did not respond the way we should have. In the end we figured everything out, but we learned a valuable lesson in needing to be patient.
This week was a great week and we got a lot done. But we were able to accomplish our goals and learned a valuable lesson in being patient. We have a long way to go including finishing the top frame of the trailer, attaching its side panels, attaching the hydraulics, attaching electric components, and painting the trailer. But with the work ethic we learned this weekend we are on the way to finishing the trailer. We are very excited for what this project has in store for us.
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