Hubs wont slide back on far enough...

gprocks

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Joined
Jul 28, 2002
Messages
26
I just replaced the wheel bearings on my Trailer with a new replacement kit which included new sleeves/guides. I have removed the old sleeves and replaced and firmly seated the new bearing sleeves into the old hubs and when I reassemble the hubs onto the trailer axle they dont seem to go on far enough. Even after I firmly tighten the nut to seat the bearings, the nut doesnt even go on far enough to reveal the cotter pin hole. And it is the same way on both sides of the trailer. I am using the bearing service instructions link I found here as well as the manufacturers instructions.<br /><br />1) Do I have to tap the hubs onto the axle so the inner seal fits over the larger part of the axle shaft - how much force does it take? Or have I done something else wrong? <br /><br />2) Also, there are no Washers on the outer bearings - the nut just contacts the bearing, this is the way the old ones were but the instructions list a washer. If I put a washer in I will be even further out, but do I need the washer?<br /><br />Any help would be appreciated.<br /><br />Cheers,<br /><br />GP
 

rc581

Petty Officer 2nd Class
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Sep 8, 2000
Messages
120
Re: Hubs wont slide back on far enough...

hi... first, are u sure u have the right bearing kit for your trailer? and i assume u replaced the seals. and no, u dont need the washer if there were none origionaly...some do and some dont. the nut should thread at least the length of the threads, and certainly far enough to install the cotter pin. u might need to take one back apart and check the races, and the bearings, especially check the bearings to see if it might be in backwards... beveled end facing in i believe... good luck...bob
 

gprocks

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Jul 28, 2002
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Re: Hubs wont slide back on far enough...

Thanks Bob!<br /><br />The bearing kit is the same as the original(matching numbers). I reinstalled new outer races on the inside bearing and outside bearing which are seated tight against the hub internal seats. The bearings are installed taper side in on both sides so they rest inside the races.<br /><br />I took it apart to check your thoughts and when I put it back together and preloaded the bearings, I loosen the nut and finger tighten it back on and can (just barely) get the pin in - The crown part of the nut is overhanging the axle shaft slightly but the solid part of the nut is well on the axle threads. This is at the point where the wheel spins freely with no play in the bearings. If I back the nut off 1 more pin spot, there is play and I wouldnt be able to get the pin in as the hole isn't lined up. It is that close.<br /><br />Does this sound right?<br /><br />Let me know.<br /><br />GP
 

gprocks

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Jul 28, 2002
Messages
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Re: Hubs wont slide back on far enough...

I figured out the problem.<br /><br />When I put the seal on, I tapped it right into the hub against the bearing. As soon as I removed the seal and tapped it in only flush with the lip of the hub so there is a small space between bearing and seal, it slides on perfectly with loads of room.<br /><br />Just wanted to let everyone know in case they run into the same problem.<br /><br />Cheers,<br /><br />GP
 

rc581

Petty Officer 2nd Class
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Sep 8, 2000
Messages
120
Re: Hubs wont slide back on far enough...

ok glad u found the problem, thought it would be someting u overlooked. glad it all worked out for u. good luck fishing.......bob
 

DaleS

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Joined
Sep 25, 2003
Messages
21
Re: Hubs wont slide back on far enough...

I'm glad to see someone else, besides me, have this problem. I bought the complete set also. I put the seal in flush and it still wouldn't go completely over the 'shoulder'. There is a bit of an offset where the actual rubber seal sits. I ended up buying a couple different seals, where everything was flush and they worked perfectly.
 

rc581

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Sep 8, 2000
Messages
120
Re: Hubs wont slide back on far enough...

we all learn thru our little mistakes bud. glad it worked out for u.....bob
 
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