Choosing the Right Hub for 6 on 5-1/2 Pattern with 3-3/8 Pilot

Updated 04/22/2026 | Published 04/16/2026

Question:

looking for Hub and spindle assembly for 6 bolt 5-1/2 pattern with 3-3/8 pilot on the rim

asked by: Mark

Expert Reply:

Hi Mark,

I can definitely help point you in the right direction, and we do carry hub and spindle options for a 6 on 5-1/2 pattern, but the key thing to know right up front is the bearings inside the hub determine if it will fit the spindle. What really matters is the bearing because that’s what ensures the hub seats properly and protects your bearings from wear or failure. The 3-3/8 pilot you mentioned is common and helps center the wheel, but we want to make sure the hub matches your spindle first so everything works together.

The most common setup for that bolt pattern is a 3,500 lb axle with a #84 spindle, which uses L68149 inner and L44649 outer bearings. A good example of this is the etrailer hub and drum assembly part # AKHD-655-35-K. It matches that setup and is a typical configuration used on many trailers.

That said, there are other setups that use the same 6 lug pattern but different bearings, especially on higher capacity axles, so it’s really important to confirm what you have before ordering. The best way to be 100 percent confident is to pull one hub and check the bearing numbers stamped on the bearings, or measure the spindle where the bearings sit.

If you can share those numbers or measurements, I’ll make sure you get the right setup the first time. What do you mostly haul with this trailer, a boat, ATVs, or work related gear?

expert reply by: Heather A

BEARING
(click to enlarge)

Dave H.

4/22/2026

Not sure by your question on whether you’re wanting to go from a 3500 lbs 5 lug to a conversion to 3500lbs 6 lug. I did exactly this with my car trailer. I ordered from E-Trailer the complete 6 lug 10” brake shoe brake hub with pre-greased bearings already assembled as a direct replacement for the 5 lug 3500lbs Dexter axles on the trailer. Everything fit like a glove during install. Unless your spindles are bent/damaged, you don’t need to replace them. Clean them up and regrease. I also use bearing buddies. I did this as I run a 16” truck tire (you read correctly truck) on my trailer. Trailer tires don’t have enough tread to start with and are prone to blowouts long before tread wear. I also balance my trailer tires. They run cooler, smoother and wear more evenly. The same tire is on my 1 ton truck. This way I don’t need to carry multiple different sized tires and wheels for spares. Also, I had a better selection of tires and custom rims in the 16” size. I couldn’t figure out how to insert pictures into this response. You can ask E-Trailer to contact me and I’ll be glad to send pictures.