7 minutes ago, Sparky450 said:

I would think dealer territory’s disappeared as soon as Tommy’s had dealerships across the nation. 

Depends on where in the nation.  Sure, they could transfer boats between locations - but there were still 66% of the territories they did not own

11 minutes ago, oldjeep said:

I suppose - that dealer territory agreement no longer applies

I would think dealer territory’s disappeared as soon as Tommy’s had dealerships across the nation. 

23 minutes ago, TallRedRider said:

I got an email today that Tommy's is selling boats from anywhere to anywhere at the 'Best prices you'll ever see!'  

It is a good time for a new Malibu/Axis if you can get your local dealer to service the boat.   

I suppose - that dealer territory agreement no longer applies

I second the light oil spray as @justgary mentioned above.  Except, what I use was really a saviour when I had my Malibus in the hawaii salt waters - T9 Boeshield is fantastic and maybe some of the best stuff I've found.  If you read up on the product it was designed by Boeing for solutions to NASA  and aircraft components, waterproofing and advanced cutting down for corrosion.  I use this on so many applications, not just the boat/trailer.

T-9 Boeshield - Amazon

Not only do you risk breaking / bending non related parts (strut, cutlass bearings, V drive output brg, seal), the ability to actually hold the boat solidly enough to bend a solid 1.125" steel shaft is remote at best.  You could probably lift the back of the boat and not bend the shaft.  As others suggested, remove it.  Good luck.