replacing axle

medic2051

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Aug 11, 2003
Messages
150
HELP!! My brother was returning my boat to me on its trailer and has become disabled. 15' foot boat on a single axle dutton-lainson trailer with 2000 lb axle. He says it looks like the bearings blew out. Fortunately boat is at a rest stop parking lot. I will have to travel there to fix it. Is it easier to replace the axle as opposed to replacing the bearings and seals? What info do I need to get correct parts?<br />thanks
 

rwidman

Lieutenant
Joined
May 27, 2004
Messages
1,396
Re: replacing axle

You need to go look at it to see what the problem is. If you have a friend who knows about these things you might want to take him along.<br /><br />If the spindles (the ends of the axle) aren't damaged then you should just replace the bearings and seals. There are several different sizes; there are three that cover most boat trailers. There should be a number stamped on the bearing. You can also measure the spindle. One style has a tapered spindle so the inside bearing is different from the outside. You will need some tools and bearing grease. For some applications you can purchase a complete hub/bearing assembly that is pre greased, just clean the old spindle, put the new assembly on, and tighten and adjust the nut and cotter pin.<br /><br />If you can't find someone to help, do a web search on "trailer maintenance" and "replacing trailer bearings" to get an idea of what to expect.<br /><br />BTW: Boat trailer bearings need constant maintenance so the more you learn about them the better off you will be.
 
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