Inspecting Trailer Hub And Spindle For Signs Of Damage

Updated 06/06/2017 | Published 06/03/2017

Question:

Last year I replaced the wheel bearings on a boat trailer. I took the parts to the store to get new ones. One side of the axle gave me problems. I was told to hammer it into place. So I did. About a week a go I walked past the trailer and saw parts of the bearing hanging out! I bought new ones. My problem is this: if I put them on the same way I will have the same problem next year. My question is this: if I go a size larger will this fix my problem?

asked by: Clinton J

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you may have damaged the bearing and more than likely the spindle as well. If the spindle is scored or damaged I recommend replacing the axle.

A bearing should just slide onto the spindle with little effort and should not be hammered as you were told. The race would be the part that would be tapped into place. I have attached a link to a helpful article that explains how to replace bearings and races on an axle.

I recommend checking the spindle and inside of the hub to see if you feel any damaged or scored areas. If so, I recommend taking the trailer to a shop that works on trailers to see if everything checks out or needs to be addressed.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L