How to Determine Correct Replacement Hub For Small Trailer

Updated 03/17/2021 | Published 03/13/2021

Question:

Good morning, dont know if you can answer this question for me, I currently have a small hotdog cart trailer and Im looking to upgrade tires, the current tires are small 4 hole 4/80/8 size and Im looking to upgrade to a 12 tire, my question is Id also like upgrade the hubs to 5 hole tire , are the 5 hole hubs the same size as my current 4 hole hubs meaning will it fit my current spindle or should I just replace my hubs with a new 4 hole hub, the picture on your website of the 5 hole hub looks pretty much the same, Hopefully this isnt to confusing, thanks for any help

asked by: John A

Expert Reply:

Ok, I can help you out here in regards to if you can get new hubs for larger wheels and tires for your small trailer, but hubs are quite specific fits for a trailer spindle, so it's going to take some measuring or knowing the hubs you have in order to determine if you can get a replacement or know if the 5-lug hubs you mentioned are the same as your 5-lug hubs.

To determine if there is a replacement hub available, there's a number of things you will need to know. First, you need to know the weight rating of your axle, and also what bearings your current hub has. 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 digital caliper and 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.

For example, the Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2,000 lb Axles # 8-259-5UC1 uses inner bearing and outer bearing L44649 (1.063" inner diameter) and a grease seal with a 1.50" inner diameter.

If you get back to me with this information I'd be happy to try and help you find the correct hub; I have also added a link below to our entire selection of hubs for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Kyle S