Locating Replacement Bearing Buddy Bearing Protector and Inspecting Trailer Bearings

Question:

I have a Hurricane 201 F/D I/O boat trailer manufactured by J. Q. Tex, Inc 4,000 LB Max Load Carrying Capacity, tandem axle. I picked up my boat and trailer yesterday from storage and when I got home 20 miles noticed one of the Bearing Protectors was missing it was there when I left the boat storage facility. Bearings were hot and had a burning smell but didnt notice damage otherwise. Can you please help me identify the correct replacement part, and also advise how I should verify no serious damage to the bearings? Thanks.

asked by: Scott P

Expert Reply:

In order to locate the correct Bearing Buddy Bearing Protector replacement, you will just need to take a quick measurement of your hub bore. For example, the Bearing Buddy Bearing Protectors # BB1980A-SS are designed for 1.980 inch hub bores. You can also try to locate a part number on one of the other existing Bearing Protectors.

I recommend making sure that the Bearing Buddy is then installed correctly. Putting a wood block across the Bearing Buddy and tapping it in with a mallet is a good method, as the wood will distribute the force of the mallet more evenly, ensuring a secure attachment.

When inspecting the existing bearings on the hub, I recommend first wiping them down. Once cleaned off, inspect them for any nicks in the roller or dents in the roller cage. If you see any of this, or lines, spots, and discoloration of the metal, they should be replaced. If replacements are in order, you can simply look for the number that should be stamped inside of the bearing for the correct replacement part.

I have attached a link that will take you to our selection of Bearing Buddy options, along with an article on trailer bearings that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R