Replacing Hubs and Leaf Springs on a Small Utility Trailer

Question:

I have an old lowes 5x8 utility trailer. Can you recomend replacement parts based on this info? Im in FL now and would like to get parts ordered now so i can save time to get trailer repaired as soon as i get home to RI. Thanks

asked by: Jack

Helpful Expert Reply:

We can definitely get you the parts needed to get your Lowes Trailer up and running, but there are a few things you will need to do to confirm the following parts will fit.

First, you will need to determine the bolt pattern of your wheels. I linked an article that assists with this process. If you have a five bolt pattern, I have found that Option 3 in the article is the easiest to use.

Second, you will need to remove one of the hubs to get access to the bearings. There are usually numbers stamped on them, but these can were off over time. If there are no numbers, you will need to measure the inside diameter with a pair of calipers to get the exact size.

If you see the number # L44643 or if it measures at 1 inch exactly, you will need either the Idler Hub with 5 on 4 1/2 bolt pattern # AKIHUB-545-2-EZ-1K.

If you see the number # L44649 or if it measures 1.063 inches, you will need either the Idler Hub with 5 on 4 1/2 bolt pattern # AKIHUB-545-2-EZ-2K or the Idler Hub with 4 on 4 bolt pattern # AKIHUB-440-2-EZ-2K.

As to the springs, you would need to measure from eye to eye on a double eye spring, or from eye to the top of the hump on a slipper style spring to get the correct replacement. If you can find a label or sticker that has a capacity somewhere on the axle, it would also help immensely. These do tend to fall off or get faded and unreadable though. If this cannot be located, you may be able to contact Lowes to see what axles they used on their 5 x 8 trailers.