Do Hub Races Have to Be Replaced Each Time Bearings Are Changed
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Question:
I have 6000 miles on my double axle boat trailer rated for 10,000#. Rather than cleaning my bearings, I thought I might as well just replace the bearings. My question is, Do I or should I replace the races as well, even if they look to be in good shape?inch I know I will replace the seals. Thanks.
asked by: Keith W
Helpful Expert Reply:
You can check the condition of your hub's races by carefully removing all bearing grease with a rag to expose the actual surface of the races. When they are completely free of grease, etc., inspect them for any signs of scoring (very slight scratches, ridges or wear marks) and for discoloration.
If the race surfaces are completely smooth and free of discoloration (most often caused by heat build up) then you can leave them in place and just replace and re-pack your bearings. If you are doing this bearing replacement before any excessive wear or damage has occurred then you may be fine leaving the original races in the hubs.
It can be a challenge to remove races from a hub bore since they are fitted very precisely to give a tight fit. Depending on the nature of the hub you may need specialized tools to pull a seated race. It is sometimes just easier to replace the entire hub with a new one, since hubs are not very costly.
For example, for a 5200-lb rated axle we offer Dexter hub/drum assembly # 8-201-5UC3 which fits on spindles that have inner bearing # 25580 that you referenced and outer bearing # LM67048. This hub takes grease seal # RG06-090.
I have linked for you our main pages for bearings and for grease seals. Also linked for you is a helpful article on bearings, races and seals.

Product Page this Question was Asked From
Replacement Trailer Hub Bearing - 25580
- Trailer Bearings Races Seals Caps
- Bearings
- Standard Bearings
- 1.750 Inch I.D.
- Bearing 25580
- Race 25520
- 10000 lbs Axle
- 6000 lbs Axle
- 7000 lbs Axle
- 8000 lbs Axle
- 9000 lbs Axle
- etrailer
more information >
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