One stripped stud- problem?

[Edge180]

Repacking my bearings I found one of the five studs to be stripped. This may be a dumb question, but is this a problem to get fixed immediately and is it something I can fix myself?

 

[oldjeep]

Re: One stripped stud- problem?

Its is easy to fix but you need to remove the hub to do it. You can pick up a new stud at the auto parts store - remove the old one first so that you have something to comare it to.

If you have a press then you can press the bad stud out and the new one back in.

If you do not then you set the hub flange over a piece of wood or steel that has a hole in it large enough for the stud head to fit through then just smack the threaded end hard with a hammer until it comes out. Failure to support the flange will result in a bent hub flange.

To put the new stud in you can use the same method to seat the tud a bit and then draw it in with the lug nut and a stack of washers.

Or for the super easy way - buy a new hub that has new studs already in it from your local Northern Tool or trailer store

 

[dockwrecker]

Re: One stripped stud- problem?

Yes fix it right away. Beat it out and pop a new one in there. In most cases you can change them in two minutes for about 5 bucks.

 

[Gpayne]

Re: One stripped stud- problem?

Best way to think about it is on a 5-lug hub, each lug supports 20% of the weight of your boat and trailer. Take one out, and you're down to 80% capacity. I've had a wheel fall off of a trailer before. Trust me, it's not a good feeling.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: One stripped stud- problem?

I have used a ball joint separator to remove wheel studs while on the vehicle. however if you pull the hub, a hammer and a socket on the back side while sitting on the vice works wonders if you dont have an arbor press.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: One stripped stud- problem?

All good advice above. It does need fixing immediately in my opinion.

 

[UncleWillie]

Re: One stripped stud- problem?

I have used a ball joint separator to remove wheel studs while on the vehicle. however if you pull the hub, a hammer and a socket on the back side while sitting on the vice works wonders if you don't have an arbor press.

+1
Support the back side with a socket or a piece pipe large enough for the stud to fall through.
You will need a big hammer and don't be shy about hitting it. It is already trash, you're going to throw it out anyway!
Getting it out is harder than putting it back in.
Just tightening the lug nut will pull it in 95% of the time.

After you do one you will wonder what you were worried about. It is such any easy job.
Pulling the hub to repack the bearing is more involve than a stud replacement.