Changing from Oil Baths to Bearing Buddies on an EZ Loader Boat Trailer

Question:

I have a 2006 ezloader trailer that I bought new. The VIN is ##. Model 6-EZR 14-17 2000. It has oil filled hubs that I want to convert to grease filled hubs as one of the hubs has developed a leak. After 12 years of no problems, the level went down over the past few months and I can not remove the plug. Even if I get the plug out I will still have an unknown leak. First question Is it necessary to replace the inner seal while I am adding the bearing buddies? Second question When using the permatex on the threads how careful to I have to be about keeping the grease off of the threads before I install the bearing buddies? I am pretty sure that I need the 1980T-SS bearing buddies but am not sure about the inner seal. Is it possible, based on the VIN, to confirm the bearing buddy part as well as to specify the inner seal as I would really like to have the parts on hand before I start taking things apart.

asked by: Tom

Expert Reply:

Yes, you will need to replace the inner grease seal when changing from oil baths to the Bearing Buddies. You will also need to make sure that there isn't any grease on the threaded portion of the hubs when installing the Bearing Buddy as this could compromise the seal when using a thread sealer like Permatex.

I called EZ Loader and was able to get the information I needed for your trailer using the VIN. However, we do not have a 2-1/8" threaded Bearing Buddy that will work with your hubs therefore it will be best to replace the entire hub for which I recommend the Trailer Idler Hub Assembly part # AKIHUB-545-2-G-2K and then adding the Bearing Buddy Bearing Protectors part # BB1980A-SS. The hubs have a galvanized finish and the Bearing Buddies are made of stainless steel so they will be perfect for your boat trailer.

expert reply by: Conner L