Factors to Consider When Selecting Replacement Idler Hub for Bass Tracker Trailer

Question:

I recently bought a couple of p/n CE13311 hubs from you guys to replace the old hubs on my boat trailer after a bearing blowout last weekend. I replaced the one this weekend and plan on keeping the other for a spare. Upon replacement I noticed the old one was actually a 5inch instead of 4 1/2inch hub. Everything lines up properly on the wheel/tire, front and rear bearings are correct size 1/16 and seated correctly on spindle, etc. Is there any reason this should cause me a problem? Im assuming the outside hub diameter is just a load-bearing thing? The 4 1/2inch hubs are rated for 1350 lb. per hub and theres no way the boat, trailer, motor weighs over 2700 lbs. Im thinking Im good here but thought Id ask an expert. FYI - as mentioned, I only replaced one, so the original 5inch is still on the other side. But it doesnt affect the ride height since the wheel/tire is same size on both sides, correct? This seems simple, but I know theres usually always some sort of catch when it seems that way. Thanks for your time.

asked by: J. F

Helpful Expert Reply:

The things that matter when selecting a replacement hub are 1) the wheel bolt pattern (to ensure your current wheels will fit); 2) the hub weight rating (each hub should be rated for at least half of the axle capacity); and 3) the bearings/seals used (the new hub must use the same inner and outer bearings and grease seal in order for it to fit properly on your spindles).

If all of these factors are correct then it does not matter if one hub has a slightly different depth dimension, and by that I mean the dimension noted in the linked photo.

expert reply by: Adam R