Should Bearing Buddies Buddies be Used on EZ Lube Trailer Axles
Question:
Have have ezlube spindles on my boat trailer, can I use bearing buddies or should I stick with the grease caps with the rubber plug? Im not sure if the bearing buddies will work with this spindle set up.
asked by: James G
Expert Reply:
EZ Lube spindles are generally preferred over Bearing Buddy setups. The EZ lube allows you to insert grease down the middle of the spindle easily which is basically the best option aside from removing the hub and taking it all apart and cleaning and re-greasing.
The Bearing Buddies are great for people who don't have EZ lube spindles but since they basically push grease through the front it's not quite as ideal. Also since these are a press in install and they end up pressurized they are known to fall off. Also the zerk prevents the Bearing Buddy from fitting.

Product Page this Question was Asked From
Bearing Buddy Bearing Protectors - Model 1980A w/ Auto Check - Chrome Plated (Pair)
- Trailer Bearings Races Seals Caps
- Caps
- Bearing Protector Grease Cap
- 1.98 Inch
- Bearing Buddy
more information >
Continue Researching
- Shop: RV Bearing
- Shop: Hub Bearing Kit for Lippert, Dexter, and AL-KO Axles - 3,500 lb with #84 Spindle
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Karrier ST185/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire with 13" Aluminum Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D
- Shop: Bearing Buddy Bearing Protectors - Model 1980A-SS w/ Auto Check - Stainless Steel (Pair)
- Shop: Easy Grease Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 5 on 4-1/2 - Galvanized
- Search Results: bearing buddy
- Shop: Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 10" - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Shop: Grease Cap, 1.99" OD EZ Lube Drive in with Plug - Qty 2
- Shop: CE Smith Spare Tire Mount - Lockable - Steel - 4-Lug and 5-Lug Wheels - 8-3/4" Long
- Search Results: wheel jack
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: U-Bolt Kit For Double-Eye Leaf Spring e48SR
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Video: Karrier ST185/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire with 13" Aluminum Wheel Spec Review
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: bearing buddy trailer bearings races seals caps
- Q&A: Can Bearing Buddy Fit on EZ Lube Spindle that has Zerk Fitting
- Q&A: Upgraded 26 Inch Leaf Springs For 3,500 lb Axle on Tracker Boat Trailer
- Video: Step-By-Step Installation for the etrailer Hub Bearing Kit - Utility Trailer
- Article: Replacing the Bearing, Races and Seals on a Trailer Hub
- Search Results: wheel
- Search Results: spare tire bracket
- Search Results: dust cap
- Search Results: wheel chocks
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Installation - 2021 Subaru Ascent
- Shop: Wheel Cover
- Shop: Spare Tire Cover
- Q&A: Which is a Better Wheel to Use in Saltwater - Steel, Galvanized, or Aluminum
- Q&A: Recommended Stainless Steel Lug Nuts For A Shorelandr Boat Trailer
John S.
4/8/2025
What if the surface of the spindle where the seal sits is worn down? I have a 1 3/8 to 1 1/16 tapered EZ spindle. The spindle seal by buddy bearing seems like a good fix because I couldn’t get a 1.72” wear sleeve to fit. I’m worried about the spindle seal covering the inner lube hole, or having two opposing grease directions if using buddy bearing and EZ spindle internal grease channel. If I can’t use a wear sleeve or a spindle seal by bearing buddy, how can I ensure a tight seal with a worn surface?