Why Would a Wheel Bearing Race Spin In the Hub

Updated 03/08/2014 | Published 03/07/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2,200-lb Axles - 5 on 4-1/2

(873)

$110.75

Replacement Race for L44643 and L44649 Bearings

(1236)

$1.63

Replacement Trailer Hub Bearing - L44649

(2074)

$14.16

Question:

The outer bearing race is turning in the hub, these hubs are on a 2013 5th wheel trailer. What can cause this?

asked by: Gene E

Expert Reply:

A bearing race or cone should fit tightly enough in the hub that it needs to be driven out of the hub with a punch from the back side. If the race is spinning in the hub, either the wrong race was used or the hub bore has been damaged in some way. If you have the Dexter # 8-258-5UC1 hub that you referred to, the hub should be using a # L44610 inner and outer race and a # L44649 inner and outer bearing. If the wrong race is being used, it should be replaced with the correct one. If the hub bore is damaged, the hub should be replaced.

If you have a different hub, I would be happy to help determine the correct race for you. The more information you can provide, the better the likelihood of getting the correct part. Knowing the following would be helpful:

Axle Capacity
Wheel Bolt Pattern
Inner and Outer Bearing Reference Number
Part Number for Existing Hub (or any casting numbers or name of manufacturer)