Solution for Replacement Hubs on 1980s Boat Trailer With Short Spindles

Updated 02/03/2026 | Published 06/29/2024

Question:

I have some old boat trailer hubs from the 1980s. I bought some replacement hubs at West Marine and they fit my spindle but stick out too far to be able to get the nut back on the spindle. Do you sell any older style hubs?

asked by: Michael R

Expert Reply:

Hi Michael; it sounds like you have the old style spindles that are extra short. Unfortunately, nobody makes hubs that fit these anymore. You can try a salvage yard or something like eBay but no modern hubs will fit. For most people the solution is to replace the axle.

To find the right replacement axle you will need to know the capacity as well as the hub face length. If you have a metal axle tag the information may still be visible on the tag. If not, the bearing combination and axle diameter (assuming it is a round axle) can help find the capacity.

I attached a link to all of our available axles below, along with a helpful video explaining how to measure.

expert reply by: Robin H

Robin H.

2/3/2026

Hey Michael, were you able to track down the axle details or find a replacement that fits your old boat trailer? Knowing what worked could help others trying to update older setups like yours.