Do I need to replace this spindle?

[texasdaddy]

Howdy,

So I started pulling apart the axle assembly on my new to me boat trailer to do a bearing grease job, and I noticed there was this pitted pattern on the spindle. Do I need to replace it, and how hard is that?

Also, is there any quick way to get all the grease out of the bearings - like a soak or spay of some sorts (I am lazy sometimes, and have 8 total to do).

Thanks

 

[batman99]

Re: Do I need to replace this spindle?

.

For this spindle, focus on where its bearings make contact on the spindle shaft. In reality, only the bearing contact surface needs to be perfect. If spindle pitting is at non-contact area (like in middle of spindle area), then "I'd leave as is". Simple re-grease.

For clearning wheel bearings, I simply wipe their outer parts with a rag. Clean them as best I can. Then, manually force new grease into the bearing rollers. Some folks soak their bearings - to flush all inner grease out their rollers and make them sparking clean. If minor amount of grease remains in bearing rollers and they look clean (not burt), then simply push new grease into the roller. And re-pack the inner hub cavity. re: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akh0WhkudrM

Hope this helps...

.

 

[lckstckn2smknbrls]

Re: Do I need to replace this spindle?

No.
The inner bearing rides just in front of the shoulder where the seal rides and the outer bearing rides just behind the threaded area. you could take some emery cloth the the areas where the bearings and seal ride and clean them up a little.

 

[Thalasso]

Re: Do I need to replace this spindle?

On a side note. If you spray/soak brg's to clean, do not use compressed air to dry.

 

[Utahboatnut]

Re: Do I need to replace this spindle?

I would go with it if it were mine, i would take some emery cloth to it though just to shine it up at contact areas. They also make a speedy sleeve(more for the seal contact area) which i have used with great success. IF you are going to reuse the bearings make sure you inspect them well AND the cups/races in the hubs. I always just replace bearings,races,seals when I have it that far taken apart, but it is possible to reuse if in good shape. Well not the seal but everything else. some people soak in gas, or use carb cleaner, brake clean, or even solvent. It takes time to get them good and clean but its pretty important as one piece of grit will take out the bearing in a hurry.

 

[MH Hawker]

Re: Do I need to replace this spindle?

nope that's good for a lot more miles.

 

[etracer68]

Re: Do I need to replace this spindle?

That area looks to me like didnt clean-up during the machining process, and is the cast steel from when it was cast, or forged. The bearings dont make contact with that area, so I wouldnt worry about it.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Do I need to replace this spindle?

That area looks to me like didnt clean-up during the machining process, and is the cast steel from when it was cast, or forged. The bearings dont make contact with that area, so I wouldnt worry about it.

Agree. Not a very good casting job !!!

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Do I need to replace this spindle?

Getting the bearings thoroughly cleaned allows you put the bearing on your thumb (or whatever finger fits) and then spin the roller cage. You might "feel" roughness that you might not otherwise see. It is very common for retained grease to mask bearing roughness and you obviously cannot see imperfections through dirty grease. Be lazy and you pay a price. Take your time, do it right, and be rewarded with a trouble-free trip. Always inspect the rollers and races for discoloration, chips, pits, crazing, or any other imperfection as it is a sign a new bearing is needed. NEVER install a used bearing in a new race or vice-versa. Replace bearings as matched sets.

 

[UncleWillie]

Re: Do I need to replace this spindle?

The pitting is in a cosmetic area. Not a problem. Looks Bad, Works Fine!
You typically can not just replace the spindle, it is precision welded to the axle.
It will be more cost effective to replace the whole axle assembly.
Your cosmetic pitting doesn't justify it.

I find that Kerosene/Diesel cuts through grease very effectively.

Be sure to NOT mix up the Left and Right hubs or the left and right bearings.
The outer races of the bearing are pressed inside of the hubs.
They are matched sets.
The left inside bearing need to be returned to the inside of the left hub, and so on.

 

[texasdaddy]

Re: Do I need to replace this spindle?

Thanks everyone. Looks like she's stayin on.