Can a Trailer Spindle with Grooves Still be Used if Bearing Fits

Question

Question:

I removed the hubs on my trailer to repack the bearings and found grooves worn into the bottom side of one spindle. The grooves are located where the inner and outer bearings would sit on the spindle. The grooves are too big to be addressed with emory cloth. However, the bearings fit well. Do I need to replace the spindle or can I continue to use this spindle?

asked by: David P

0

Expert Reply:

You will have to replace the spindle. Grooves that can't be taken out with emory cloth will eventually cause new bearings to fail which will leave you stranded with a locked up wheel most likely.

To replace a spindle, the old one would need to be cut off, and the new one welded into place. This is NOT a job for the do-it-yourselfer. The new spindle must be absolutely square with the axle in order to prevent premature tire wear and wheel tracking problems. I would recommend finding a welder who is experienced with trailer axles. Your local RV dealer or repair facility could probably refer you.

expert reply by: Jameson C

0

William

1/14/2020

what if grooves are small and can be knocked down with emery cloth? what are tolerances on a 1 spindle?

Reply

Jason S.

1/17/2020

If grooves in your spindle are small enough to be knocked down with a fine grit emery cloth, you will be fine. If you are even thinking about using a rough grit, then you should replace the spindle. The tolerances aren't specified, but bearings are measured by hundredths and even thousandths of an inch. In some cases being off by 2 hundredths of an inch means using a different bearing and even hub. A standard 1 inch trailer spindle will use Bearing Kit # BK1-100 for reference.

Helpful Links

tv-Demo-TruRyde-Trailer-Bearings-and-Races-BK1-100.aspx

Reply

Answer 1

To determine the size of the brake assemblies you need you have to measure the depth and width of the hub drum on the axle like what you see in the picture I attached. The most common size is 2-1/4 inch wide like the #T4071600-500 that you…

view full answer...

Answer 2

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

view full answer...

Answer 3

The correct torque specs for lug nuts will depend on certain variables such as wheel size, wheel material, stud size, and stud type. The most common torque spec for trailers is around 90-100 ft. lbs. I have attached our wheel nut torque…

view full answer...

Answer 4

The Hydraulic Brake Kit #AKFBBRK-35-D fits on a standard 4 bolt brake flange for 10 inch brakes like #4-35. The standard measurement is 2-7/8 between the bolt holes. I've attached a diagram as well.

view full answer...

Answer 5

The difference between the standard and EZ hubs is in the grease cap. For instance, the Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 3,500-lb E-Z Lube Axles #AKHD-545-35-EZ-K is the same hub, bearings, seal, and races as found in #AKHD-545-35-K but the grease cap…

view full answer...

Answer 6

There actually is no real difference. They have the same dimensions, fit the same applications, and are both double lip seals. Our part number for the 10-36 is the #RG06-070.

view full answer...

Answer 7

It might seem that the spindle being slightly bent isn't a big deal but it can definitely lead to another blowout so you'll want to replace that spindle with a new one. It looks like you have a straight spindle like the standard BT8 found as…

view full answer...

Answer 8

The CE Smith Trailer Hub Assembly part #CE13109 does not come with a spindle nut or washer so if you needed that as well you'd need the #RG05-100 which is a it for both sides of the axle that includes washers and nuts.

view full answer...

Answer 9

Yes, there should be a washer of some type between the spindle nut and the bearing on your trailer. The washer protects the back side of the bearing from the edges and points on the back side of the spindle nut. There are several types of spindle…

view full answer...

Answer 10

I certainly understand your reason for wanting to change them and it is possible to replace your drum hubs with idler hubs. Normally, it is recommended that if you have brakes on your trailer then you should keep them for safer towing. To make the…

view full answer...

Answer 11

Both automobile and trailer standard brakes lines are made of steel tubing like #T4336000. This item has a 3/16-inch diameter and the steel line is both copper-plated and galvanized for resistance to corrosion. Boat trailers can also be equipped with…

view full answer...

Answer 12

If you remove the hub and wipe away the grease on the spindle you can check to see if it is damaged. Look for an scarring, gouges, discoloration, or scoring on the spindle. If the spindle is damaged then the bearings won't ride properly and can…

view full answer...

Can a Trailer Spindle with Grooves Still be Used if Bearing Fits

Product Page this Question was Asked From

Continue Researching