How to Identify Compatible Hubs for Vintage Utility Trailer

Question:

I am trying to find the correct hubs for a trailer that I have. Someone built it years ago and the old hubs are out dated and the wheels are obsolete. The spindle I have is tapered and measures on the wide end, 1.1875 and the narrow end is .75. It is 3.75inch long from wide end to the start of the threads. I am looking for 5 bolt hubs and the bearings to match, can you help? I dont want to replace the spindles unless I absolutely have to as they are in great condition. Thanks

asked by: Brett S

Expert Reply:

Thank you for the photo of your vintage utility trailer's spindle. The simplest and surest way to identify a compatible trailer hub is to identify the inner and outer bearings and the grease seal it uses. Matching up those components along with the axle weight rating and the hub bolt pattern is pretty much it.

However, in your case I can tell you up front that we have only one hub that uses a bearing whose inner diameter is as small as 0.75-inches, hub # AH15450ECOMP. It uses outer bearing # LM11949 (0.75-inch ID) and inner bearing # LM67048 (1.250 inch ID). If your hub uses these same bearing parts then this hub will fit the spindle. Note that these hubs are rated for use on either 2500-lb or 3000-lb rated axles and has a wheel bolt pattern of 4 on 5, instead of the 5 bolt pattern you were looking for.

If this hub isn't suitable then I do not recommend changing spindles; that process is definitely not a DIY type job since it requires special alignment jigs and an experienced welder to ensure perfectly straight and concentric installation of the new spindles. Instead I suggest replacing the entire axle with a new one that includes hubs, or hubs and brakes if you prefer. Since these axle/hub kits include new bearings, races and seals you will have the peace of mind knowing that the whole axle assembly has all new parts that are in good order, and those parts will be industry standard, therefore easy to replace in the future.

To choose a new axle from among those shown on the linked page you will want to determine the axle weight capacity needed, its spring seat and hub face dimensions and the specific wheel bolt pattern you want for the trailer wheels. Please refer to the linked axle diagram and to the linked article on wheel bolt patterns.

For example, the axle kit # 35545I-EZ-89 is a 3500-lb axle with idler hubs that have the popular 5-on-4-1/2 bolt pattern. Overall axle length is 89-inches and the spring seat spacing is 74-inches. This kit includes the axle beam, cast iron idler hubs, bearings, races, seals, grease caps, wheel studs, lug nuts, and marine-grade wheel bearing grease included.

Please feel free to tell me more details about your axle and hubs and I will be glad to assist further.