Is the Distance Between Bearings In a Hub an Important Measurement When Finding a Replacement Hub

Question:

I am trying to retrofit an I am told old motor home axle to a standard wheel and bolt pattern. Item #8-213-5uc1-ez uses the same inner and outer bearings as I currently have, but there are no measurements given for the depth or distance between the bearings. I want to make sure I get a hub that will fit the existing spindles for length, as well as bearing diameters. How is this measured? Or is it usually measured? What are the specs on this item for this? Thanks in advance. FWIW - you guys have a fantastic website. I answered almost all of my questions just reading your QandAs and tech information. I know this crap aint easy - just want someone to know that its not only appreciated, but I will purchase anything I possibly can from you because of the service you provide online.

asked by: Mark

Expert Reply:

First, thanks for the kind words. We work hard to provide the best online experience in the industry. If the axle you have is a MOBILE home axle and not a motor home axle, then you will have to replace the axle. Mobile home axles are designed for one time use only and should not be reused. As a result of this one time use, there are very few replacement parts available.

Now if it is an axle from a motor home then it is most likely a trailer axle and you will not need to replace it. If the bearings match those in hub # 8-213-5UC1-EZ, and the bolt pattern is the same (6 on 5-1/2), and the capacity of 5,200 to 6,000 pound axles is correct, and the axles you have are EZ lube axles then this is the hub for you. If you do not have EZ lube axles but everything else is correct then use # 8-213-5UC1.

Bearings are designed to fit a specific spindle and hub combination. If the bearings match on a replacement hub, the bearings are known to fit that hub and have the measurements to fit the same spindle as your existing ones. The distance between the bearings is not measured.

expert reply by: Michael H