[CurlyDave]

To me, this is easy:

1. How much would a U-Haul have cost you the first time?

2. How much would the U-Haul cost this time.

3. How much is it worth to have peace with your wife?

In my home #3 is big enough that we can ignore #1 and #2. If the sum of 1,2 and 3 is enough to fix your truck and trailer just let the stepdaughter have the trailer.

Lend her the trailer and explain to your wife that you have decided to go ahead with it out of respect for your relationship. Do not make her feel guilty for it, just say it as a fact.

She knows her daughter is irresponsible and is taking advantage of you. But, if you rub her nose in it, she will defend her daughter to the death.

My wife is worth more than all the trailers in Illinois to me, and all the trucks there also.

You can get your truck & trailer fixed, but it is a lot harder to fix the relationship with your wife & stepdaughter.