How Often to Add Grease to 3500 lb Capacity Trailer Axle

Updated 11/17/2021 | Published 11/13/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Hub Bearing Kit for Lippert, Dexter, and AL-KO Axles - 3,500 lb with #84 Spindle

(2691)

$15.39

LubriMatic Standard Pistol Grip Grease Gun with 3-1/2" Pipe and 12" Flexible Hose

(30)

$25.09

Seal Puller

(142)

$11.35

Grease Seal - Double Lip - ID 1.719" / OD 2.565" - for 3,500-lb Axles - Qty 2

(2480)

$6.23

Question:

On a Dexter 3500 brake axel how often to add grease and what happens if too much grease is pumped into the hub? Does the grease get on the brake shoes?

asked by: Tom K

Expert Reply:

It's recommended that trailer hubs be pulled and the bearings and races cleaned and inspected and the bearings repacked every 12 months or 12,000 miles.

Assuming you're speaking of an EZ Lube spindle, I'd recommend checking the grease fill monthly. Attach your grease gun such as # L30-310 to the zerk fitting and gently apply pressure until you see the outer bearing move or see grease oozing through the outer bearing. Being too forceful and adding too much grease too quickly can blow out the grease seal, which will get grease all over the inside of the brake assembly. This works best when the bearings are warm, running the trailer for a couple miles at highway speeds will make this process easier.

If you're unfamiliar with the process for inspecting and repacking bearings, you can see a video by clicking the provided link. I've also linked to a recommended maintenance schedule that you might find helpful.

When you pull the inner bearing to inspect/repack it you'll destroy the grease seal while you're removing it. We offer replacement double lip seals as part # RG06-050. We also offer a replacement kit as part # BK2-100 which includes replacement inner and outer bearings, inner and outer races, a replacement grease seal, tang washer and cotter pin. The seal can be removed using a hammer and screwdriver, but a seal puller like # PTW1219 is easier.