Replacement Hub/Drums and Brake Assemblies for 3500 lb Axle

Question:

I have pre 2000 EZ load trailer w/ 2x 3inch ped Dexter axle, 1-3/8inch tapered spindles, 14inch wheels, 5 bolt x 4-1/2inch ridged / HD-1000 hub drum. 3500 lb. or 3750 lb. axle ?? I need to replace w/ new drum brake kits and seals. existing inner bearing #L68149, w/ Federal 203015 grease seal. I assumed # 203015 seal is the wrong seal for this axle/ drum assembly. The grease blew pass the seals and totally covered and destroyed the brake system. Which grease seal would recommend to prevent blow-by / leakage ?? #168266TB or # BB60002 set w/ SS collar ?

asked by: Dan P

Expert Reply:

Given the probable axle capacity, wheel bolt pattern and L68149 inner bearing, you have a standard 3500 lb axle compatible with L68149 inner and a L44649 outer bearing. For replacement drums and hubs, I'd recommend the etrailer # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K hubs if you have EZ-Lube spindles with the grease zerk on the end of the spindle or # 84546UC3 if you have a standard spindle.

Each hub/drum includes the inner and outer bearing, a 58846 double-lip grease seal (also referred to as a 10-19) to prevent blow outs like you experienced and the dust cap and lug nuts. The grease seal has a 1.179 ID, which will be a tiny bit smaller than the surface of the spinde it rides upon for a good seal.

For brake assemblies, use # 23-27 for the right side and # 23-26 for the left.

As for the blow out you experienced, it sounds as if the correct seal was used, but if you have EZ-Lube spindles or bearing protectors like # BB1980A-SS, grease seals will blow out if too much grease is pumped in (been there, done that before I knew better). As long as the hubs aren't overfilled, a double lip seal like what's included with the hubs I recommended will work perfectly. For the Bearing buddy, once the spring that surrounds the zerk fitting is almost fully compressed, the hub is full. For an EZ lube spindle, once you see the grease starting to work its way around the washer, you're good.