Is a Spindle Washer Needed Between the Spindle Nut and Outer Bearing on Dexter 5 on 4-1/2 Hubs
Question:
On a Dexter 5 on 4 1/2 Hub, should there be a washer between the axle nut and the outer bearing? On all other trailers and cars there is a washer, none on the Dexter trailer I have, just a large nut that covers the whole bearing.
asked by: DelC
Expert Reply:
Yes, there should be a washer of some type between the spindle nut and the bearing on your trailer. The washer protects the back side of the bearing from the edges and points on the back side of the spindle nut.
There are several types of spindle washers available depending on the spindle configuration on your trailer.
The Washer For 1 inch Spindle, # SW1000, is typically used on spindles that have a castle nut, like # 165686, and a cotter pin, # 165649.
A D washer, # 5-23, would be used on a spindle that has a flat side and uses the same castle nut and cotter pin setup.
A Tongue Washer, # 165863, would be used on a spindle with a groove cut through the threads, and would use the same castle nut and cotter pin setup.
A Tang Washer, # 5-101 or # 5-71, could be used with a spindle that has a D shape or a groove, and no cotter pin. The tang on this type of washer is bent up in one or places to prevent the spindle nut from turning and a cotter pin is not needed.
Before installing spindle washers on your trailer, you should check the outer bearing for damage. If you see grooves or scarring of the bearing, you should replace the outer bearing and remove and repack the grease, # L11380, in the trailer hub.
I have added a video on repacking bearings and a link to all of the wheel bearings we carry for you.
Products Referenced in This Question
Cotter Pin - 1/8" Thick x 1-3/4" Long
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Suspension Parts
- Cotter Pin
- ABS Fasteners
more information >
Replacement Spindle Washer - Tang Type for E-Z Lube
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Spindles
- Spindle Washer
- 1 Inch I.D.
- TruRyde
more information >
Tang Replacement Spindle Washer
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Spindles
- Spindle Washer
- 1-1/2 Inch I.D.
- Redline
more information >
LubriMatic Prime Guard High Temperature Wheel Bearing Grease - Red - 16-oz Can
- Lubricants Sealants Adhesives
- Grease
- Brake and Bearing Grease
- Lithium Complex-Based
- Standard Bearing Grease
- Polyurea - Conventional
- 16 oz
- LubriMatic
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Hub Bearing Kit for Lippert, Dexter, and AL-KO Axles - 3,500 lb with #84 Spindle
- Trailer Bearings Races Seals Caps
- Bearings
- Standard Bearings
- Bearing Kits
- Bearing L44649 and L68149
- Race L68111 and L44610
- 3500 lbs Axle
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Washer For 1" Spindle
- Video: Installing the Timken L44649 Trailer Wheel Bearing on a 2022 Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro Travel Tr
- Video: Feature Breakdown: D-Shaped Rubber Seal for Enclosed Trailer
- Article: What are the Common Types of Propane Fittings Used on RVs?
- Search Results: tmk23vr
- Q&A: What Size Socket Works with 1 Inch Spindle Castle Nut # 165686?
- Shop: Dexter Bearing Kit for 1-1/16" BTR Spindle
- Search Results: l44649 trailer hubs and drums
- Shop: Replacement EZ Lube Drive-In Grease Cap - 1.986" OD - Qty 1
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Shop: Trailer Spindle Nut 1"
- Video: Optronics 12V LED RV Dome Light Spec Review
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Search Results: accessories and parts
- Q&A: H-Channel for Enclosed Trailers to Build Doors
- Shop: Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2,000-lb Axles - 5 on 4-1/2 - Galvanized
- Shop: Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2,000-lb E-Z Lube Axles - 4 on 4 - L44649 Bearings
- Shop: Complete Bearing Kit with L44649 Inner/Outer Bearings and 10-9 Grease Seal Fits 1.063" Spindles
- Search Results: wheel covers hubcaps
- Search Results: l44649
- Video: Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2,000-lb E-Z Lube Axles Feature Review
- Video: All You Need to Know About the Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly
- Search Results: dexter idler hub
- Q&A: What Hub Do I Need For A Trailer With 4.80-4.00-8 Tires
- Q&A: How to Choose the Correct Hub and Wheel for a Trailer with a 4.80-8 Tire
- Q&A: Should There Be a Washer on Trailer Spindle Between Spindle Nut and Outer Bearing
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Recommended Replacement For 4 on 4 5.70-8 Trailer Wheels With A Higher Speed And Load Rating
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
on Trailer Bearings Races Seals Caps
