Determining Correct Replacement Axle For Older Axle With Obsolete L44649 LM11949 Bearing Combination  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

I have a replacement axle option for you, but unfortunately the inner bearing # L44649 and outer bearing # LM11949 combination your utility trailer axle uses is not one that is common any more, and as such there is not any replacement hubs available.

If the hubs are still usable then replacing the bearings and grease seal would be the most cost effective option. If you can provide the O.D. of your grease seal I would be happy to recommend the correct replacement if this is the option you want to go with.

To upgrade the hubs the only option will be a full axle replacement.

Now to determine the correct replacement axle you will need to measure hub face to hub face, and spring center to spring center of your current axle along with determining the axle rating.

The easiest way to determine the axle rating is by checking the axle tag on the center of the axle, but if it is missing you can get a good idea of the rating by taking the GVWR of the trailer and dividing it by the number of axles.

Based on your current bearing combination your trailer likely has a 2000lb axle. A possible replacement is the Dexter Trailer Axle with Idler Hubs - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 60" Long - 2,000 lbs # 20545I-ST-60-15 which has a 2000lb rating, and measures 60" hub face to hub face and 48" spring center to spring center. This axle includes two idler hubs with the more common 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern which will give you the most options for new wheels and tires.

If your current axle does not match these dimensions there is another option, the Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System - Regular Tires - 2,000 lbs # A20RS545. This option bolts directly to the frame of your trailer so you do not need to worry about the length of your axle. It also replaces your leaf spring suspension with progressive rate AEON main springs that do a great job of absorbing road shock making them a nice upgrade over leaf springs.

This kit includes new hubs that use inner and outer bearing # L44649 and have the common 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern which is ideal for finding new wheels.

Lastly to determine the correct replacement wheels and tires it really comes down to how much clearance there is with your fenders. If you can measure from the center of your current axle to the bottom of the fender that will give me a good idea of how much room you have to work with, and if you will need to replace/relocate the fenders to fit larger wheels and tires.

I included videos of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Samuel C

1

Dimensions Of Dexter # 20545I-ST-60-15
(click to enlarge)