How to Identify Replacement Hub Based on Bearing Part Numbers and Spindle Dimensions

Updated 05/29/2018 | Published 05/25/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3,500-lb E-Z Lube Axles - 5 on 5-1/2

(902)

$159.83

4" Carbon Fiber Digital Caliper

(26)

$12.31

Question:

I have a broken hub on an old 4-wheel 1000-gal. water tank. Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3,500-lb E-Z Lube Axles - 5 on 5-1/2 Item # 84555UC1-EZ is close, but my spindles are 1.375 x 13/16, not 1. The bearings are fairly new, so I have a 13/16inch bearing, but the race diameter is 1-15/16, which is smaller than the L44610. What can I do? Spindles cant be changed, they are an L-shaped part of the steering.

asked by: Jeff M

Expert Reply:

The easiest way to identify a suitable hub is to pull the inner and outer bearings to obtain their part numbers. The linked image shows you the typical appearance of bearing and seal numbers. If you can find those numbers on your bearings this makes it easier to check availability of a replacement.

I linked our main page for hubs, including both idler hubs and hub/drums for applications with brakes. Once you know your bearing numbers you can simply click on those numbers on the hub page to then see only the hubs that will fit your spindles.

If you cannot find part numbers you will need to measure the spindle at the points B,C and D noted on the diagram; these correspond to the seal inner diameter, the inner bearing's I.D. and the outer bearing's I.D. You'll need a precision digital caliper like # PTW80157. With replacement hubs and bearings the dimensions need to be very close for a proper fit. Spindle dimensions need to be taken to the nearest thousandth, as in 1.234-inches as an example.

Two helpful articles on bearings are linked for your reference.

expert reply by: Adam R