3500 lb Inner Bearing/Race Kit

Description

3500 lb Inner Bearing/Race Kit

The 3500 lb Inner Bearing/Race Kit is a precision-engineered set designed to keep your trailer running smoothly and safely. Built with industry-standard components, this kit features a high-quality L68149 bearing and its matching L68111 race, ensuring that your trailer’s wheel assemblies maintain proper alignment, reduce friction, and deliver reliable performance over the long haul. Whether you’re hauling cargo, livestock, or recreational equipment, having dependable bearings is key to a safe and efficient towing experience.

Kit Specifications

• Bearing (L68149):
  • Inner Diameter: 1.378″
  • High-quality, tapered roller bearing designed for high-speed use
  • Application: Inner bearing for #84 spindle, commonly found on 3,500 lb axles
• Race (L68111):
  • Outer Diameter: 2.361″
  • Provides a smooth, uniform surface for the bearing to roll on inside the trailer hub
  • Works seamlessly with L68149 bearing

This combination of bearing and race is used widely across standard 3,500 lb trailer axles. Because both the bearing and race use industry-standard numbers, sourcing replacements is straightforward, making maintenance and repairs less complicated and more cost-effective.

Why Replace Your Inner Bearings and Races?

The inner bearing and race play a vital role in ensuring that the trailer’s hub spins freely and that load distribution is even. Over time, bearings and races can become worn due to consistent friction, exposure to debris, inadequate lubrication, or challenging towing conditions. Replacing just these parts, rather than the entire hub assembly, can be a strategic and cost-effective approach. By addressing worn bearings and races early, you can prevent more expensive repairs down the line and help maintain a safe, stable towing experience.

Signs Your Bearings and Races Need Replacement

• Strange Noises: Grinding, humming, or whirring sounds from the wheel area may indicate metal-on-metal contact caused by worn bearings.
• Excess Heat: If the hub feels unusually hot after a short tow, it could mean the bearings are not properly lubricated or are nearing failure.
• Play or Vibration: Excessive wheel wobble, noticeable vibration, or pulling to one side can signal uneven wear in the bearings or races.
• Visual Damage: Rust, pitting, or discoloration on the bearing or race surfaces is a clear indication that replacement is needed.

How to Grease Your Bearings

Proper lubrication is essential for extending the life of your bearings. Grease reduces friction, dissipates heat, and helps protect against rust and corrosion. Follow these steps for optimal results:

1. Clean Thoroughly: Remove the old bearings and use a solvent or degreaser to strip away any old grease, dirt, and debris. Dry them completely.
2. Select Quality Grease: Choose a high-temperature wheel bearing grease formulated for trailers. This type of grease is designed to withstand the stresses of towing.
3. Pack the Bearings: Place a generous amount of grease in the palm of your hand and press the bearing into it, ensuring the rollers and cage are fully coated. Rotate and repeat until every part of the bearing is saturated.
4. Coat the Race: Apply a light layer of grease to the race’s inside surface to create a smooth rolling path for the bearing.
5. Reassemble and Test: Once properly greased, reinstall the bearings and races, tighten your spindle nut according to your axle’s specifications, and spin the hub to confirm smooth, quiet operation.

Maintaining Your Bearings for Longevity

Consistent maintenance helps you get the most out of your bearings and races, preventing unexpected failures and costly downtime:

• Regular Inspections: Check your bearings and races at least once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Frequent long-distance towing or heavy loads may require more frequent checks.
• Timely Repacking: If the grease appears dirty, discolored, or dried out, clean and repack your bearings to maintain proper lubrication.
• Check Hub Seals: Ensure that your hub seals remain in good condition. Damaged seals allow moisture, dirt, and debris to enter, accelerating bearing wear.
• Monitor for Changes: Listen for unusual noises, feel for vibrations, and pay attention to how your trailer handles. Addressing minor issues early can prevent major problems.
• Replace as Needed: Don’t hesitate to replace bearings and races showing signs of wear. It’s a cost-effective preventative measure that supports safety and optimal performance.

Benefits of the 3500 lb Inner Bearing/Race Kit

• Enhanced Safety: Restoring smooth hub rotation reduces the risk of accidents caused by bearing failures.
• Improved Efficiency: Properly maintained bearings help reduce rolling resistance, which can contribute to better towing performance.
• Extended Lifespan: Regular care and timely replacement of bearings and races protect your axle components, promoting longer service life.
• Cost Savings: By addressing only the worn bearings and races, you avoid the expense of replacing entire hub assemblies or encountering more severe mechanical issues.

Investing in the 3500 lb Inner Bearing/Race Kit ensures that your trailer remains safe, stable, and ready for the road. With proper maintenance and timely replacements, you can enjoy consistent, worry-free towing for years to come.