Q? about trailer bearing sizes

[projectcop]

Hello all;
I have a 1984 Bayliner Capri cuddy 16' on the original (escort?) trailer. I know I need to do some work on the trailer (I am going to clean/repaint/new wiring/new lights/bearings/hubs/wheels/tires). It's all there, and it all works; but was not cared for properly by the P/O and it shows.
My question is, I have seen different size bearings; I believe 1" and 1 1/16"? Where exactly is this measurement taken? Is this the OD of the bearing surface of the axle?
And how would I know which one I have without taking it apart and measuring? I would like to have the parts on-hand when I take it apart. I don't want to take it apart twice.
Thanks for any help you can offer.
George

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Q? about trailer bearing sizes

You measure the diameter of the spindle where the bearing sits when the hub is installed. It is an OD measurement for the spindle, and an ID measurement for the bearing. Just jot down the bearing numbers when you remove the parts. Take those numbers (bearing, races, and seal) with you to the nearest auto store. They can cross reference the part numbers but they are pretty standard for boat trailers.

 

[projectcop]

Re: Q? about trailer bearing sizes

Silvertip;
Thank you for the reply. I figured the measurement was the OD of the bearing surface of the axle, just wanted to confirm. What I was really hoping to find out though, was if there was a way to find out which bearings to get before taking it apart. The boat is stored a block away and cannot be worked on there, and I cannot leave it jacked up in front of the house. I would have to move it to the house to jack it up, take it apart, check everything, put it back together, put it away, go get the parts and then move it again to do the work. I was kind of hoping to avoid all that. I just hate doing things twice!!
But I guess I will have to, huh? Oh well, just seems like a monumental waste of time to me to do it all twice. Oh well......

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Q? about trailer bearing sizes

If you know it's GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) or axle weight rating you have half a chance at getting the right bearings. If it is a 2000# axle the spindles will have 1-1/16 inch inner and outer bears. If it is a 3500# axle it will have 1-1/16 outer and 1-3/8 inner bearings. I would guess this is a 3500# axle based on the boat you mentioned. Most auto stores and farm stores with auto departments have both of the bearing sizes packaged as kits that includes both bearings and the seal for one wheel. Look at the Wheel Bearing info in the stickies at the top of this forum for generic part numbers.

 

[maverick974]

Re: Q? about trailer bearing sizes

To be sure, why not just purchase both bearing sizes so when you take it apart, you'll have the correct bearing regardless of size. When you're done, take the unused bearings back to the parts store and get your money back on the unused parts.
I've done this many times and the parts stores are always happy to oblige.

 

['78 Crusader]

Re: Q? about trailer bearing sizes

To be sure, why not just purchase both bearing sizes so when you take it apart, you'll have the correct bearing regardless of size. When you're done, take the unused bearings back to the parts store and get your money back on the unused parts.
I've done this many times and the parts stores are always happy to oblige.

I agree....

Or take them off and find out exactly what the bearing sizes are. Taking them off is very simple......