Correct Bearings for Malone EcoLight Kayak Trailer  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Thanks for letting us help David. I did some digging on this, and unfortunately, there is some conflicting information regarding the spindle size used on Malone trailers. From what I was able to find, Malone has used either a 1" or 1-1/16" straight spindle, depending on the manufacturing run. There doesn't appear to be a clear pattern based on model or year, and even the replacement hub Malone currently offers includes bearings for both spindle sizes. Because of that, the most reliable way to determine the correct bearing kit for your specific trailer is to either remove the hub and measure the clean spindle with a digital caliper or remove one of the existing bearings, clean it up, and look for the bearing number stamped into the side.

Your spindle uses the same size inner and outer bearing, so you only need to identify or measure one of them.

If your spindle measures 1", you'll need L44643 bearings like in the Replacement Trailer Wheel Bearing Kit # BK1-100.

If your spindle measures 1-1/16" (1.063"), you'll need L44649 bearings like in the Replacement Bearing Kit # BK1-150.

Both of these kits will also come with the correct replacement races and grease seal.

I wish there were an easier way to identify this without taking the hub apart, but given the variation in Malone's spindle sizes, this is going to be the best way to make sure you get the correct bearings. You'll also want some fresh bearing grease for the installation. I'd recommend the LubriMatic LMX Industrial Strength Grease # L11390.

Are you replacing the bearings as preventative maintenance, or are you having an issue with one of the hubs?

expert reply by: Christopher H

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Malone Spindle Using L44643 Bearing
(click to enlarge)

Malone Spindle Using L44649 Bearing
(click to enlarge)

David V.

8/31/2026

Neither actually, just preparing for end of season maintenance. The trailer is new, so I'm not expecting to need to replace anything. Since it appears I'll need to measure the spindle, I'll just repack the bearings and replace the grease this year. Once I get the spindle size I'll order a couple of the appropriate bearing kits for future use. I'd like to have spares so I can fix any problems immediately rather than having to wait for parts... Glad to know I wasn't imagining things...

Christopher H.

8/31/2026

@DavidV You definitely weren't. Sounds like a solid plan as well. Let us know if you need anything else.