I inspected my wheels to see if I had any problems. I found both wheels have a hair of play in them while shaking them back and fourth. I decided to pull them apart and inspect the bearings, spindle, races and all that other good stuff. Everything looked good.

I cleaned and repacked the bearings, put new seals on and after I got it back together I still had that same amount of play in the wheels. Prior to putting it back together I had my local trailer shop look at the parts to give me a second opinion and they said everything looked good.

Is that normal with the wheels?


Thanks
Scott

 

What brand/model of axles are on the trailer?

Are they tapered timkin type bearings? If so, generally turning the crown nut snug with a channel lock, then backing it off to the next slot where the cotter pin lines up with a slot will put you in the ball park. You may be able to feel a slight bit of play rocking the wheel.

This is assuming you haven't removed an outer race from the hub...

 

I tightened up the castle nut until it stopped. Then I backed off until I could fit the cotter pin, I backed off about 1/8 turn.

As far as the brand axle I'm not sure, but it's a Value Line Trailer. It's a 1" spindle and the trailer shop(where I bought it) sold me dexter parts, if that means anything. They are tapered bearings, but did not change them or the race because they are in good shape.

Thanks
Scott

 

Getting the nut tight with a pliers and then backing off to the next position to put in a cotter pin is probably fine.

Dexter has a very good free PDF manual for download.

Dexter's page

Under "Service Information" pull the drop down for the weight capacity of your axle and select complete service manual.

Al-Ko also has a good manual.

Al-Ko's page

Just click on owner's manual.