Can a Damaged Trailer Spindle Cause Grease Seal Leaks?

Updated 09/17/2026 | Published 09/12/2026

Question:

I have 2016 fox mountain that has wheel bearing seal thats leaking grease all over brakes. I replaced lip seals last year Checked them again brakes covered in grease again. What I found the seal surface looks like it was hit with chisel letting grease leak by. Do you have sleeve that will go old lip seal surface? The diameter of shaft is 2.250. The seal number is 010-036-00 Thanks

asked by: Danny C

Expert Reply:

Hey Danny, welcome back! The replacement for your Dexter 010-036-00 grease seal is # RG06-070, which has the same 2.250" inner diameter and 3.376" outer diameter. Unfortunately, we don’t carry a repair sleeve for a 2.250" seal surface, and from what you’re describing, I think the damaged spindle surface is the reason you keep having grease get past the new seals.

If that surface has a deep groove, gouge, or chisel mark, installing another seal will likely put you right back in the same spot. I’d inspect the spindle closely for any additional damage, but if the sealing surface is damaged badly enough that the lip can’t maintain a good seal, the proper fix is replacing the spindle or complete axle. I’d also replace any brake shoes that have been soaked with grease, along with thoroughly cleaning the drum, since contaminated brake linings can cause poor or uneven braking.

What do you think caused that damage to the spindle?

expert reply by: Jesse M