an apparatus and method for securing a wheel to an axle that is particularly useful when the axle has fractured . the apparatus connects to the axle , for example at the axle flange , and also connects to the wheel hub assembly . a stabilizer contacts the axle conferring extra strength and stability to the apparatus , for example by extending inside of the hollow fractured axle . a reinforcement member can optionally be used to more firmly secure the apparatus to the axle . methods for using the apparatus are also provided .