How to Pick Out Replacement Hub for an Old Horse Trailer

Updated 06/08/2015 | Published 06/06/2015

Question:

I recently purchased a 1973 two horse, straight load trailer made by the now defunct I believe Imperial Trailer Co. Noticed this morning that one of the front wheels was wobbly, and when I tore the hub and drum down, the first thing I noticed was that there was no washer between the spindle nut and outer bearing. Was planning on replacing the the brake assembly and hub anyway, so I purchased two P/N 8-257-5UC3 and the left and right brake assemblies TRBK-7E-01 and -02. Hit a bit of a hitch when it comes to that spindle washer though. The threaded portion of the spindle measures approximately 7/8inch and has the groove for a tongue washer. And now Im wondering if the hub and drum assemblies will work with my spindle? Also, any suggestions on where to look for that washer and what thickness it should be? Id anticipated finding damage to the axle itself and having to replace it but it appears sound underneath some surface rust. However, in anticipation of replacing the axles in the future, Im including a photo of the front theyre the same, front and back, with that s-shape because I couldnt find anything on the site that was similar and Im wondering if my trailers odd or I just missed the appropriate replacement.

asked by: Lisa M

Expert Reply:

When you go to pick out a replacement hub for a trailer you need to do a bit of homework before you buy them. You need to determine what hub currently is on the spindle so you can find one that will replace it. Hubs aren't universal fit items so you need to make sure you get the correct one.

The first thing you will need to know is the bolt pattern of your hubs. This is so you get a hub that is compatible with your wheels. I attached an FAQ article on determining bolt pattern for you to check out.

Next thing you will need to know is what spindle you have on your trailer. In order to do that you can either get the inner and outer bearing numbers from a hub or use a dial caliper to get exact measurements of the spindle. The measurements needed are the parts of the spindle where the bearings ride.

If you get back to me with that information I will help you pick out the right hub assemblies. Or, you can follow the link I attached that will take you to the page that has all of our replacement hubs.

You would want to first select the bolt pattern that you have, next select the inner bearing you have, followed by selecting your outer bearing, and then all the correct hubs will be listed.

expert reply by: Jameson C