Safe-T-Lube hubs on my axle

[finlander]

Does anyone have these and how difficult is it to replace the bearings and cups in them? After two seasons and given the age of the trailer I bought in 2006, trailer is an '01, I feel it is time to pull and look at them and probably replace them. I have done standard bearing setups before, but I would like to know in advance what to expect. The literature I have is kinda vague. Thanks, Bruce.

[Cyberlunge]

Hey Fin -

I am assuming these are the same as EZ luber and other through axle designs. They are usually for the bigger rim and tire setups and use two different id bearins. They lube through a center fitting that delivers the grease to the rear of the bearing and then pushes it forward ensuring the rear bearing does not run dry. They have this advantage but they also allow more water in to the bearing area due to weaker outer seals in the lube port. Rebuilding is the same as any other. Unless you see obvious wear and or pitting (wear defined as a grayness in the race area where the bearing rides) I would clean lube and re-assemble. If not replacement is the same except the nut keepera are external because of the internal lube passage. I tried to find a good diagram but this is the best I found http://obpc0.tripod.com/Tompics/EZ-Lube-Image.jpg you can see the inherent problem witht he rubber plug. Grease them more often w/ less grease and tehy should be fine.

Kevin

[finlander]

Thanks Kevin. That is the setup and that is the diagram in my literature forom the dealer. One side I'm afraid has a bad/failing/failed rear seal cause I found grease on the backside of the rim. I was fishing for answers on what I might find when taking it apart. Simple bearings I have done and repacked before. I will probably take them both apart if the weather warms a bit soon, if not I will wait til the spring and do them first thing. The back of it has this double seal. Where would one go to hunt these down? An auto store wouldn't would they, seems like a specialty item.

[Cyberlunge]

Extremely common on travel trailers/campers. I get all my parts at richfield trailer supply here in TC. I would honestly expect that auto stores would have them on the shelf, just make sure the old parts are in your hand for verification of fit. Also TSC has them AND I would highly recommend getting a complete seal/bearing/keeper assy to carry with. I believe it was Chad a few years ago that missed the IOC because of a failed bearing on the road.

KK

[Scott Williams]

I usually repack mine every spring, and at least check them before any big trips. I also carry an extra set of bearings with me just in case.

[finlander]

The dealer probably replaced the tires before I picked it up, but I doubt the bearings were. Or even thought of. If it sat on a lot for 5 years, could dry rot occur on a bearing that is just sitting around?