Tips for Buying a Trailer Hub Cap
If you are a trailer owner, chances are that you have a hub cap or dust cap on your wheels. These caps protect your wheel nuts from rusting and keep dust out of the bearings. While these caps do require some maintenance, they are very affordable and easy to replace. However, it is important to choose one that is appropriate for your trailer and your driving habits. Buying a good dust cap is a must if you have a boat trailer, as half of all boat trailers use these caps. Here are a few tips to help you pick a quality dust cap for your trailer:
Check the size of your wheel hubs. Trailer manufacturers use different hub sizes to accommodate varying wheel sizes. To determine the correct wheel hub size, you will need to have the bearing reference number. Most bearings have this reference number engraved on them. You can find this information online. The size of your wheel hubs should be checked regularly, as bearings can wear out and become loose over time. It is recommended that you check them every three to six months, depending on the type of trailer you own. This company website will help you understand the topic even better.
It is best to use a hand grease gun instead of an automatic one. This is because they operate at too high a pressure. When you overfill the hub, it can over pressurize the bearing seal, leading to it blowing off. Using a hand grease gun also prevents the grease from getting inside the wheel nuts and hub assembly.
Before you purchase a trailer hub cap, you will want to know if it is oil-filled or not. Oil-filled hubs can be problematic if your trailer sits for a long period of time. They are also not recommended for use with solid rotor disc brakes, which generate heat. Some trailer manufacturers support oil-filled hubs, but some do not. Aside from oil-filled hubs, there are also other types of hubs. Stemco hub caps are a great option for trailers, and they are very affordable.If the topic is still not clear to you, open this link that demystify the topic to get more info.
Stemco hub caps are designed to be tough and long-lasting. They also come with a two-part unitized seal that provides watertight protection for the bearing assembly. In addition, Stemco hubs have a steel seal that is abrasion-resistant. And when you are shopping for a quality hub cap, you should look for one that is zinc-plated to withstand harsh road conditions.
Other parts of the wheel hub assembly include bearings, a cotter pin, and a grease seal. Some trailer hub kits include these components already assembled. Purchasing a trailer hub kit will simplify the process of installing your hub. Also, you may have to buy a few extra parts, but you can get them for less than the price of a new hub.
When purchasing a trailer hub, it is also a good idea to look for a brand that offers a warranty. For example, Kodiak Trailer offers a two-year warranty on its hubs. Check out this company website that has expounded more on this topic: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Center_cap.