Recommended Galvanized Hubs For Utility Trailer Used For Aluminum Boat Launching

Updated 06/08/2017 | Published 06/06/2017

Products Featured in This Question

CE Smith Trailer Hub Assembly w/ Carrying Case for 2,500-lb Axles - 4 on 4 - Pre-Greased - Threaded

(284)

$62.20

Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2,000-lb Axles - 5 on 4-1/2 - Galvanized

(512)

$40.03

Kenda Loadstar 5.30-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C

(2701)

$103.46

Bearing Buddy Bearing Protectors - Model 1980A-SS w/ Auto Check - Stainless Steel (Pair)

(1547)

$41.66

Double Lip Grease Seals (pair)

(643)

$6.95

Question:

bought utility trailer from costco years ago now need to replace complete hub assembly. the inner and outer bearings are L44643 Also need grease seals - Heavy duty if possible I have bearing buddy on the hubs now model 1980 - ss I do use it to put my 11foot aluminum boat in lakes 5 on 4 1/2 with 12inch wheels What is your recommendation? Bolt pattern almost looks like 5 on 4 1/4inch but Im in RV business and never heard of this size.

asked by: Denise N

Expert Reply:

For your utility trailer, I recommend the Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2,000-lb Axles - 5 on 4-1/2 - Galvanized # AKIHUB-545-2-G-1K since you use it for boat launching. This assembly will include all of your bearings, races, and grease seal. Your current bearing buddy caps will work with these hubs. If you need a new set, I recommend the Bearing Buddy Bearing Protectors - Model 1980A-SS w/ Auto Check - Stainless Steel (Pair) # BB1980A-SS. If you want a heavier duty grease seal you can use the TruRyde Double Lip Grease Seals (pair) # RG06-010 to replace the ones in the assembly.

This combination will give you a completely new assembly compatible with wheels that are 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern. The 5 on 4-1/4 inches you mentioned are not a common size wheel for any trailer style and I have not even heard of it. If that is your bolt pattern, you will need to upgrade to standard sizing. I've attached an article to assist.

For wheels and tires, I recommend the Kenda Loadstar 5.30-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Spoke Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C # AM30820. These have a speed rating of up to 65 mph and are rated for 1,045 lbs at 80 psi. These wheels have a 3-step powder coat finish to provide rust resistance.

expert reply by: Jason S