How Full Should Boat Trailer Hubs be Filled with Grease
Published 11/26/2024
Question:
How full should the hub for a boat trailer be packed? I’ve read several conflicting stories. I have a regular hauling trailer as well. Would they be packed differently? I have an ez lube axle on my boat trailer and only plan to drive about 3 miles one way at 40 mph stop and go to launch. I’d rather keep the boat hubs pretty full to prevent water intrusion. Thx.
asked by: Duane
Expert Reply:
Hey Duane,
Once the bearings are packed with grease and the hub is on the spindle you'll need to slowly pump grease into the spindle until you see it start to seep out of the outer bearing. Be sure to use a manual grease gun so the grease doesn't fill the spindle too quick and blow out the seal.
This will be the same process for both your standard trailer and your boat trailer. I'm attaching a helpful article on replacing bearings that goes over this as well.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2,000-lb Axles - 4 on 4 - Galvanized
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Idler Hub
- Standard
- L44649 / L44649
- Marine Grade
- For 2000 lbs Axles
- 1/2 Inch Stud
- 4 on 4 Inch
- 8 Inch Wheel
- 10 Inch Wheel
- 12 Inch Wheel
- 13 Inch Wheel
- 14 Inch Wheel
- etrailer
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Duane
11/26/2024
WOW! What a fast response. Very detailed article as well. Thank you. The article outlined that grease should be applied until the spring (assume bearing buddy) starts to move. Would that imply there is no air gap between the outer bearing and the bearing buddy? Since my system pumps from the rear bearing, and would eventually seep out the front, do I still leave the cavity area in my simple bearing cap (not a bearing buddy) completely empty? Or should a percentage of that cap be filled? Some articles implied filling the cap would keep water from being “sucked” in as the hub enters the water. Other articles warned about expansion due to heat thus blowing out the rear seal. Your advice implies leaving the bearing cap empty, correct?