How to Grease an Axle with EZ Lube Spindles

Published 06/16/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Idler Axle w/ Idler Hubs - EZ-Lube - 4 on 4 Bolt Pattern - 60" Long - 2,000 lbs

(417)

$271.45

LubriMatic Deluxe Bearing Packer

(62)

$28.46

Question:

I just received my EZ-Lube axle from you. I havent used an axle with this EZ-Lube feature before, and while it seems simple enough Ive found over the years that some of my simple assumptions can really mess things up when theyre wrong. So two questions about the grease seal 1 I assume there is need only for an inner seal, and no outer grease seal is required? and 2 That there is no need for Permatex when installing the inner seal? Your on-site instructions didnt mention Permatex, as I recall. If this is wrong, please let me know quickly as I want to get this installed ASAP. And as an aside, I was surprised to find surface flash rust inside of one of the hubs you sent. The plastic wrapping was not applied well and it appears that water got inside somewhere. I dont think its damaged but didnt expect this on a new part.

asked by: Terry F

Expert Reply:

There is no outer seal with the hubs of the Dexter Trailer Idler Axle w/ Idler Hubs # 20440I-EZ-60. Just an inner seal. Permatex is not required or recommended so I would not worry about that.

Here's how to grease everything upon initial installation.

First, grease your bearings and spindle by hand or with a bearing packer like part # L70025. If you are going to do it by hand, start with a gob of grease in your palm and then press the bearing into the grease with some force.

Next, insert your bearings and grease seal in the hub and mount your hub on your spindle. You should slowly pump grease into the spindle. As you are pumping the grease into the spindle, occasionally rotate the hub. This will prevent the grease from building up in one spot.

Continue to pump grease until you begin to see the outer bearing move or you see grease seeping through the outer bearing. If you pump the grease slowly and rotate the hub, you should not blow the grease seal. Once you see the grease seeping through, you can install the washer, spindle nut and nut retainer. Keep in mind, when threading on the castle nut, you will want to tighten the nut until it is hand tight and then slightly back it off.

expert reply by: Jameson C