What Is Needed To Swap An Axle And Hubs To American Parts On A Harbor Freight Trailer?
Updated 01/27/2026 | Published 01/08/2026
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I am interested in purchasing Part CE33201GA-HUB, to replace the chineses factory axle and hubs on my harbor freight trailer. In the description on your website it states this axle is ready for 13 to 15 wheels, however my trailer wheel well will only fit a 12 wheel without major modifications to the wheel well. Can I run a 12 wheel on this part number CE33201GA-HUB?
asked by: Bryan H
Expert Reply:
Hi Bryan!
The hub included with the CE Smith Trailer Axle w/ Idler Hubs - 5 on 4-1/2 - 57-1/2" Long - 1.8K # CE33201GA-HUB is designed to fit 13 to 15 inch wheels and has too large of a diameter for 12 inch wheels. With you having 12 inch wheels, you will want to basically part this out and go with a different hub that has a smaller diameter to fit. I have everything you would need to do this listed below:
Dexter Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2,200-lb Axles - 5 on 4-1/2 - Galvanized # 8-259-50UC1
CE Smith Trailer Axle Beam with Standard Spindles - Galvanized - 57-1/2" Long - 1.8K # CE33201GA
Loctite High Performance Synthetic Grease - 14.1 oz Can # LOC64FR
The hubs are sold individually, so you would need to grab two of them to complete the order. These ones also have the smaller diameter and can be used with 8 to 12 inch wheels. It is the exact same axle and I included the Loctite grease as well.
What are you carrying on your Harbor Freight trailer?
Product Page this Question was Asked From
CE Smith Trailer Axle w/ Idler Hubs - 5 on 4-1/2 - 57-1/2" Long - 1.8K
- Trailer Axles
- Leaf Spring Suspension
- Marine Grade
- Idler Hubs
- 1800 lbs
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- 46-1/2 Inch Spring Center
- 57-1/2 Inch Hub Face
- No Drop or Lift
- CE Smith
more information >
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Lazer S.
1/27/2026
Hey Bryan, how did things go with the CE Smith axle and the smaller Dexter hubs for your Harbor Freight trailer? Did the 12-inch wheels fit the way you needed? Your update could make it easier for the next person working on a similar trailer setup.