On light machines much time and expense can often be saved by using the following method for straightening a bent axle: Place the machine with the axle that is to be straightened directly under and parallel to one of the heavy cross-timbers on the second floor of the garage. Next take two 4x4 inch timbers and cut them just long enough to reach from the top of the axle to the under side of the cross-timber. Place one of the timbers on each end of the axle and drive a small wedge under each to hold them in place. Now place an ordinary screw jack on the floor directly under the bend and apply as much pressure as is necessary to spring it back into place. The writer has used this method successfully for over a year and the whole job can be done in fifteen minutes. If the axle is very stiff it is a good plan to place a piece of band iron between the timber and the axle to prevent the timber from splitting.

Fig. 326 - Straightening a bent axle.