How do I Remove My Old Reliable HD-1206 Hubs so I can Replace them with New Ones?

Updated 04/21/2025 | Published 04/13/2025

Question:

Hi There. I have a set of HD-1206 hubs, I believe manufactured by Reliable in 1994 or so. Id like to remove and replace with parts from e-Trailer!. To be honest though, I cant even figure out how to remove these from the axle. Do you have any videos or suggestions?

asked by: Geoff H

Expert Reply:

Hello Geoff,

Removing those old Reliable HD-1206 hubs isn’t too tricky once you know the steps. First, make sure your trailer is secure, chock the wheels, jack it up, and take the wheel off. Then, pop off the dust cap with a screwdriver or chisel, pull the cotter pin out of the castle nut, and unscrew the nut to remove the washer. After that, the hub should slide right off the spindle, just give it a gentle wiggle if it’s a little stubborn. You’ll probably see the outer bearing come out as you do. If you’re replacing everything, flip the hub over and carefully pry out the grease seal to get the inner bearing out too. It’s messy but manageable. If you could please clean off the bearings and comment below the bearing numbers, axle capacity, and bolt pattern (I attached an article on how to measure) I am happy to get you the correct replacement parts. I also attached a video on how to remove.

I am showing that the Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 5,200-lb Axles - 6 on 5-1/2 # 8-201-5 might be the right replacement hub, but would like to verify your bearing numbers to be certain.

If you have any issues, please comment them below. Pictures always help too =)

expert reply by: Kate F

Geoff H.

4/20/2025

Thanks Kate. These had bearing-buddy type zircs on them, hiding the cotter pin and castle nut. But, once I got those off, it was all good! For bearing number, I've got TRP 25580. ID of hub is 1 3/4, OD is 2 7/16. It is a 6 on 5 1/2. Can you confirm the right replacement hub? Can you also recommend a bearing buddy type set up for these hubs? Can you also confirm that the replacement hub includes the inner and outer bearings, and the rear bearing seal with the front keeper nut? Thank you!

Kate F.

4/21/2025

@GeoffH Thanks for the information, Geoff. For a hub that comes pre-greased with your bearings, races, and grease seal, you'll want the Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 5.2K & 6K Axles - 12" - 6 on 5-1/2, part number: # AKHD-655-6-EZ-K. Note that the hub does not include the castle nut. For that, you'll need the Trailer Spindle Nut 1" # 165686. For Bearing Buddies, I have two options: - Stainless steel (ideal for marine use and corrosion resistance): # BB2441SS - Chrome-plated: # BB2441 Let me know if you need anything else =)

Helpful Links

tv-demo-etrailer-trailer-hubs-and-drums-hub-with-integrated-drum-akhd-655-6-ez-k.aspx

tv-mdemo-vendor-natm-bearing-buddy-bb1781.aspx