When Installing Hubs On An Axle Should They Spin Freely Or Should There Be Some Resistance?

Updated 07/03/2025 | Published 06/27/2025

Question:

Ive just installed the hubs onto the axle. One side spins pretty easily while the other side has some resistance. Is this normal? Also, I had a difficult time getting the cotter pin in the side with resistance. Im not sure if that is relevant, but wanted to disclose that.

asked by: Monty

Expert Reply:

Hey Monty,

When installing hubs on an axle they should turn freely. Initially you will feel slight resistance but once the seals set it should be able to turn freely. Some things that may cause resistance could be a damage or improperly pressed bearing or an over tightened axle nut. The one that spins freely sounds like everything is alright, the one with resistance could be a damaged seal in my opinion.

When you received them did you notice any damage to the packing/item itself upon opening?

expert reply by: Nick S

Monty

7/2/2025

Hi Nick, This is my first time replacing an axle and installing a hub just so you know my background. The hub in question had a spring or coil hanging down over what I think is the seal, but I pushed it back where I think it should go. I apologize that I didn't take pictures so you could get a better idea of what I was seeing.

Nick S.

7/2/2025

@Monty No worries at all. It sounds like it could have been the castle nut or retaining pin the may have been out of line or damaged on that. Which something that may seem that small may cause damage to the seals or races.

Monty

7/2/2025

@NickS do you think it will be OK or should I get it replaced?

Nick S.

7/3/2025

@Monty If it is something you recently ordered from us, that is something we can reship. Just the hub itself since it arrived damaged or defective. I will have a customer service representative reach out to you and help get that taken care of.