Can Trailer With 2,000 lb Axle Switch From Hub With 4 on 4 to 5 on 5-1/2 Bolt Pattern

Updated 07/16/2019 | Published 07/14/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2,000-lb Axles - 4 on 4 - L44649 Bearings - Pre-Greased

(1477)

$53.74

Grease Seal

(2519)

$12.47

Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2K Axles - 10" to 12" Wheels - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased

(1477)

$43.26

Replacement Trailer Hub Bearing - L44649

(2136)

$22.22

Question:

I have a small aluminum homebulit trailer with a 2000 lb axle and running 4 bolt hubs and the small tires. I would like to change to a bigger tire easiest thing would be to run a 5 x 4.5 pattern as I have other trailers with these size tires. Can I just change out the to the bigger hubs? Or is the axle spindle to small? Thank you

asked by: Keith O

Expert Reply:

There are hubs that fit a 2,000 lb axle that have a 4 on 4" bolt pattern as well as a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern, the key is knowing what bearings and grease seal your current hub has.

For example, the Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2,000-lb Axles - 4 on 4 # AKIHUB-440-2-2K uses inner and outer bearings # L44649 and Grease Seal # 10-9.

If you had this hub you could replace it with Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2,000-lb Axles - 5 on 4-1/2 # AKIHUB-545-2-2K which also uses inner and outer bearings # L44649 and grease seal # 10-9.

If you aren't sure what bearings and seal, you have (and most people wouldn't know that off-hand) you will need to take apart your current hub assembly and look at the bearings themselves; wipe away the grease and you should be able to see the part number stamped directly on them. If you are unable to find them, you need to use a digital caliper to measure your spindle to the thousandths of an inch where the bearings and grease seal ride. You can use the photo I've attached to see exactly where you need to measure.

If you get back to be with your bearing numbers or measurements I can try and find the best option for you; I have also added a link to our entire selection of 2,000 lb hubs with a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern for you to check out.