Will My New Galvanized Wheels Corrode My Hubs
Updated 02/04/2026 | Published 01/31/2026
Question:
Just got new galvanized wheels from you folks. My hubs are absolutely not galvanized. My plan was just to clean them up, paint them, and use them anyway. Is there a problem using galvanized wheels with painted steel hubs? Some kind of metal mismatch corrosion or something?
asked by: James
Expert Reply:
Hey, James.
The zinc that is part of the galvanize mixture can corrode over time when in contact with other metals such as copper, brass, bronze, and stainless steel. Steel however is safe. The hubs you have are most likely steel if they are not plated or painted. There are stainless steel hubs out there so if you have a hunch that yours are, you would want to paint them to prevent corrosion.
What kind of trailer do you have?
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel - 14" x 6" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 - Galvanized Finish
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Wheel Only
- 14 Inch
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Galvanized
- Americana
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Will DeeMaxx 10" Disc Brakes Fit with 14" Americana Wheels?
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Q&A: Are Lug Nut Inserts of Aluminum Trinity Series Trailer Wheel Tapered
- Q&A: Trailer Wheel Recommendation for a Boat Trailer in Saltwater
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between Load Range C and D ST175/80D13 Trailer Tires
- Q&A: Looking For Square Tube Marine Axle For Boat Trailer
- Q&A: How to Determine 5 Lug Bolt Pattern for 14 inch Wheel Based on Stud to Stud Dimension
- Q&A: Backspacing of Americana 14 x 6 Steel Mini Mod Trailer Wheel AM20364
- Article: Trailer Drum Brakes vs. Disc Brakes: Making the Decision
- Article: How to Raise Your Travel Trailer Height
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Article: Which Hitches are Made in the USA
- Article: How to Bleed Your Trailer Surge Brakes
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
James
2/3/2026
It's an old trailer so no idea if the hubs came with the trailer or not. I'm almost certain they're just steel. I painted them anyway just to help preserve them. Thanks for the explanation! Much appreciated. Your new wheels look great and I look forward to seeing what they look like after a season.