Wheel bearing failures

[77cruiser]

Originally Posted by bcrvman

You need 8K axles and matching gear, also ask for upgraded Timken bearings. Whoever let you install 7K gear on a 16,000+ trailer is a crrok. Yes I know the weight is also carried on the pin, but during normal travel that weight distribution changes all the time. The wise move is 8,000 axles and gear.

https://www.montanaowners.com/forums...1&postcount=17

[luve2race]

Originally Posted by 77cruiser

7K & 8K axles use the same bearings. Wonder if the spindles were FUBAR from the factory.

I believe the 8000 lb axle outer bearing is larger. The inner are the same size.

[dfb]

We have been doing this since 92. Zero wheel bearing failures. Repacked only one rv.. our present montana has not had brakes nor bearings packed.its a 15..

[rohrmann]

Originally Posted by 77cruiser

7K & 8K axles use the same bearings. Wonder if the spindles were FUBAR from the factory.

Not exactly. The spindles are the same but on the 8K bearings, the inner is the same but the outer bearing is 02475 and the race is 02420, substantially much heavier and larger. The 7K outer bearing is 14276 and the race is 14125A.

[marty 3400rl]

I read all what you said and what others replied. My question for you when the replaced wheel bearings did the also replace the races for each bearing, there is ware pattern on the race / and bearing.
Also personal I would NEVER use the zerk fitting on the Alex ends to grease the bearings. Pull wheel, hub and clean all bearings, of old grease and hand repack bearings and new axle seals. Every 12 k miles.

[rohrmann]

Bearings and races should always be replaced at the same time due to wear. Some have been successful using the zerk fittings to add grease to the axles, but my personal experience was over $500 ten years ago, and that was just for parts and getting the drums turned, after using the EZ lube zerks exactly as described in the Dexter manual.

[Wayne]

Update. I have spoken to Montana customer service about my problem. I've also sent them copies of my repairs and also the Cat Scale weights. They really had no suggestions of why we are experiencing our failures.

Lazy Days told us that it could take up 3 months to get a replacement axle. We are full timers. I addressed my concern to customer service. Can't say for sure if someone took my concerns seriously, but yesterday I got a call and was told a new axle had arrived at Lazy Day. Today I was told the trailer is ready. We will pick it up tomorrow and continue on a 3000 mile trip ending back in Florida this fall. Thanks to everyone who replied. You folks are the best when it comes to real advice.