Recommended Solution to Protect Bearings From Water on Boat Trailer

Updated 01/10/2022 | Published 01/08/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Kodiak XL ProLube Oil Bath Hub Body and Cap - 2.440"

(103)

$31.48

Bearing Buddy Bearing Protectors - Model 2441SS - Stainless Steel (Pair)

(1609)

$63.93

Bearing Buddy Bearing Protectors - Model 2441T-SS - Threaded - Stainless Steel (Pair)

(1609)

$76.61

Question:

I have pro lube Dexter axles on my boat trailer. They come with the removable rubber s to allow for adding grease without removing the dust caps. Not water proof at all!! I am intrigued with the XLPROLUBE2440 dust caps for my axles. It appears that with the screw on cap that it would keep water out and still give me access to add grease to the bearings. I would have to seal the rubber plug though. What are your thoughts?

asked by: Scott G

Expert Reply:

The Kodiak # XLPROLUBE2440 is designed to replace the body and cap for a Kodiak XL ProLube oil bath hub. Since you are using grease and have a Dexter axle, it sounds like you have an EZ Lube axle with a zerk fitting for adding grease and a grease cap plug on the end. Assuming that is the case, you do not want to use the # XLPROLUBE2440.

Instead, I recommend adding Bearing Buddy Bearing Protectors like the # BB2441SS or the threaded # BB2441T-SS. These are specifically designed for marine applications and will keep water and dirt out of your hubs and bearings. You can try to fit these on without removing your existing zerk fitting, but more than likely you will have to remove it before installing the bearing buddy.

They maintain a slight pressure with a spring-loaded piston which will prevent water from entering the hub. These are designed to fit a 2.441" hub bore. I only chose this size based on the Kodiak kit. You will want to make sure to measure for the correct fit.

I have attached a review video, along with a link to every Bearing Buddy we carry which can be filtered down by hub bore diameter.