Looking For Pre-Greased Hubs For Utility Trailer With Timken 442251 Seals
Updated 07/09/2026 | Published 07/07/2026
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Question:
I just purchase a utility trailer and would like to purchase new pre greased hubs. It has 15 tires. The bolt pattern is 5 @ 4 1/2. The back of the hub on what I believe is the seal has the 442251 Timken on it. The spindle has a zerk fitting so I’m guessing I need bearing buddies as well. I do have pictures of all if that would help. Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you. I’ve dealt with e trailer in the past and been very happy.
asked by: Scott H
Expert Reply:
Hey Scott, thanks for reaching out. That Timken 442251 seal is the standard size for a 3,500 lb axle, so based on the info you provided, it sounds like you definitely have a standard 3,500 lb axle. We do have pre-greased hubs for that. I recommend the following:
- Easy Grease Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased # AKIHUB-545-35-EZ-K
This comes with the pre-greased hub, lug nuts and easy-lube grease cap. The cap has a rubber plug you can pop out to access the zerk fitting. If you prefer the bearing buddies, you can use part # BB1980A-SS in place of the included grease caps.
What do you usually haul with this trailer?
(click to enlarge)
Jon B.
7/9/2026
You have easy lube spindles. The zerk fittings allow you to pump grease into the spindles which then comes out of both sides of the spindles ahead of the rear grease seal but behind the rear bearings. The grease then is pushed through the annular space in the hub and then out through the front bearings where you can wipe it off with a paper towel. Keep pumping grease until all of the old grease is pushed out and new fresh grease starts to come through. If you alternate the color (I use red, then blue) it is easy so see. It takes less than a tube of grease to accomplish this task (both sides). This should be done once each year. I raise the axle so I can rotate the tire during this process. I also take this opportunity to rotate the tires (spare to right, right to left, and left to spare). I have done this every fall on my 1989 boat trailer before I put her to bed for the winter. Tires should be replaced every 10 years regardless of wear. The idea of Bearing Buddies is that the spring applies constant pressure so that water does not enter through the seals. The instructions still say you should regrease the hubs annually. I have found them to be unnecessary as long as I perform the annual maintenance described above. You do not need them.
Jesse M.
7/9/2026
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Easy Grease Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Idler Hub
- EZ Lube
- Pre-Greased
- L68149 / L44649
- Standard Grade
- For 3500 lbs Axles
- 1/2 Inch Stud
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- 13 Inch Wheel
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- etrailer
more information >
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on Trailer Hubs and Drums
Scott H.
7/8/2026
I will be hauling my 4 wheeler and kayaks for most part.