Bearing install Questions.

[Nandy]

I was in the process of adding BB (Bearing Buddies) to this used trailer that I bought with the cobia. I was not able to install them as there were something blocking the BB from getting in. That was a good thing as I should have replace the bearings anyway. This forced me to get the bearings at Wally and replace them. However, I found a few more things than what I was expecting. I have never worked on trailers bearings before. All the trailers I had before were home made out of car axles. I know the process is very simillar but you never know. Maybe there are some "no, no's" that I am not aware. Anyway, here I go.

When I pulled the hub out I learned that what was blocking the BB was a plastic ring. This trailer had at least one BB and I lost it during the first time I took the boat out. I never thought a BB could be made out of plastic. Anyway, I took the hub out and the back seal was apparently loose and remained in the spindle. I saw water and the grease appeared to had been mix with water, if that is possible... Also, this spindle is the same size all the way to where it go in to the axle. I am used to car axles where the seal "seals" around the spindle in a section that is 1/4 inch or so wider. This spindle had what I will call "an insert". My question is how is the hub sealing is it has that "insert" that is not part of the spindle. I installed everything back including that insert, which I greased all over. Does anyone has a trailer with such thing?

I packed the new bearings and filled the hub with grease as I have done with cars then followed to put grease in the BB using the zerk. Is that correct for a trailer?
Also, when I was tightening the spindle nut (there is not a washer either) I did as I do with cars. Tight the nut until I can see the tire rotation diminishing then go back about 1/4 turn. Check that the tire rotates freely again and try to shake the tire making sure it has just a bit of noticeable move. Hope that is the way also.

I placed the bearing buddy in place. It got tight. This BB has ridges in the part that goes inside the hub. Lets see how hard it is to take out..

Here are some pictures to explain myself better.

Bearing hardware. The insert in question is the last item, left to right, second row. What was blocking the Bearing Buddy is the first item, left to right, first row.

A close up to the insert. Look how much pitted it is. I don't think that is right...

I would like to know if I can get that insert and the spindle washer. If not I guess I will have to change those spindles in the future...

What do y'all think!!!

Thanks!

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Bearing install Questions.

If you look at the insert and the inner diameter of the seal you will see that they are the same size. Either the trailer was manufactured with the insert and seal to match or the original seal cut a groove in the spindle and would no longer seal. As a result, the insert kit was added which consisted of the insert and the larger seal. You really need to add the spindle washer behind the nut. Any auto parts store should have them. Your adjustment procedure is a little out of the ordinary but the end result is ok IF there is just an very slight amount of play felt. And very slight means just that. It should be almost undetactable.

 

[Nandy]

Re: Bearing install Questions.

So I gather than this type insert is something used at times. That is good. I wonder how that insert keeps the water from filtering between itself and the spindle. You think I can find those inserts in a auto parts store? That one looks too pitted to me. I am going to BassPro in a few minutes to see if I can find the spindle washer.

 

[Nandy]

Re: Bearing install Questions.

Bass Pro only has the regular bearing kit. I will try to check in the auto parts tomorrow. I dont want to do the other tire and then having to take it appart.

 

[22E6441]

Re: Bearing install Questions.

I just did my bearings and had similar "spacers" on my spindles. I just cleaned them up and stuck them back on. Without them you wouldn't be able to tighten the wheel enough. i just put some grease around the edges of the spacer and installed my wheels. the spacers ride outside the hub, so they're not protected by anything...that's why they're corroded. I don't think you have to worry about them.

 

[hwkypuck]

Re: Bearing install Questions.

There are no problems just solutions

 

[Nandy]

Re: Bearing install Questions.

There are no problems just solutions

How zen!!!