Hub Replacement / Repair

[BigNiner19]

So I havent ever had my hubs off, all I've done is hit the buddy bearings with grease since I've owned this trailer for about a year. But I'm certain that they are probably worn out. What do the majority of you guys do at this point. Do you go to the marine store and buy 2 new hubs and bolt them on (they look to come pre greased, with bearings, seals, etc..) or do you clean your old bearings (unless they are cracked or worn out) and replace with new seals and regrease?

I also was curious to know if anyone finds it worth it to get galvanized hubs? I found them online at a marine trailer place. They dont seem to be much more expensive if any than a regular hub.

Also one last question...I know my hubs are 5 lug, but they look to make two different 5 lug hubs. 1" 1/16 and 1" 3/4 or something along these lines. IS one more common than the other or something? I guess I will just have to pop one off and find out maybe.

Cory

 

[Ram58]

Re: Hub Replacement / Repair

I would take the bearings out, clean and inspect. If they look good, pack them with grease and reinstall. If they are loose or show wear replace bearings, races and seals. Clean all the old grease from your hubs and fill with new also.
The hub sizes are referring to the axle diameter where the bearings ride.

 

[BigNiner19]

Re: Hub Replacement / Repair

I would take the bearings out, clean and inspect. If they look good, pack them with grease and reinstall. If they are loose or show wear replace bearings, races and seals. Clean all the old grease from your hubs and fill with new also.
The hub sizes are referring to the axle diameter where the bearings ride.

I took them off. The bearings and the inside of the hubs are smooth and look pretty good. The grease didn't even look all that bad. Didn't look like any water intrusion. I've decided I will go get two new seals. Stick those in. Pack the bearings I have with new grease, clean everything really good, and put it all back together. Will I be able to re-use the races?

Cory

 

[Utahboatnut]

Re: Hub Replacement / Repair

Yes you can re use the races as long as there is no pitting,grooves, wavyness to them. If they are in question replace everything as it is not reccomended to mix and match with bearings and races, replace all as sets. Plus getting the races in and out is the tough part of the job anyway.

 

[nlain]

Re: Hub Replacement / Repair

Bearings and races go together, if you replace 1 you must replace the other, never mix old and new, if the races are good, no pits,scratches,scores, flaking, you reuse them, just clean and check. From what you say it sounds like they are good. You may want to get new cotter pins, yes you can reuse the old ones but it is better to replace and they are cheap.

Just thought of something that may help you, click the link and you can watch videos on trailer repairs like you are doing.

http://www.etrailer.com/tvc-16-Trailer-Service.html