Quote:
Originally Posted by Rossue
Totally disagree. No comparison between modern automotive brakes and trailer brakes that haven't changed for many decades. From leaking rear seals- like we had at first inspect @ 1 year to a recent post re: stripped thread for castle nut....you disregard Dexter's maintenance schedule at your risk.
Also- if you burn a bearing and waste the spindle you have to replace the whole axle.
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OK, here is more of my perspective: First of all, my wife and I recently purchased a 2017 5.0 TA. This trailer was said to have been used only a few times. I seems to us it had never been used. Full LP tanks, remotes still in plastic, etc. Looks new in every way. I planned on checking the wheel bearings soon, but this thread moved it up on my to do list. My discovery follows.
Both LH brake seals had failed as well as one on the right. The grease was spun around on the hardware but did not get on the linings. The grease is super soupy, not good when combined with the EZ lube feature.
Now, consider this scenario: Suppose the original owner did not sell, but decided to use the unit for another season. Come spring he thinks it may be a good idea to pump some grease into the bearings. (He read posts from the misinformed and took it in line and sinker.) But guess what? This dude just bought himself a brake job! Maybe it took some miles, but soon he says to himself, I don't think my brakes are working good...
Having previously owned a large fifth wheel with Lippert axles I discovered the same thing, grease where it was not supposed to be. My advice for a new owner is to immediately check the wheel bearings before they go anywhere. The forums are full of failures.
The above comes from being a mechanic on cars, trucks and trailers, also industrial equipment for a good 65 years. ( started early) I will turn 80 this month. Cheers to me!