Dexter E-Z Lube Spindles
- Differentiate the E-Z Lube spindle grease flow path from traditional hub packing methods.
- Execute a proper greasing procedure using the spindle-end fitting and hub rotation.
- Identify the risks of high-pressure grease application regarding brake shoe contamination.
- Grease gun — Attach to the grease fitting in the spindle end to inject fresh lubricant.
- Manual hub rotation — Rotate the hub while pumping to ensure grease flows correctly from the inner to outer bearing.
- Clean rag — Wipe away old grease as fresh grease appears at the nose of the hub.
E-Z Lube spindles have a grease fitting in the spindle end. Grease travels through the spindle to the back of the inner bearing and flows out through the outer bearing.
Remove the rubber plug in the end of the grease cap, attach the gun and pump slowly while rotating the hub until fresh grease appears at the nose of the hub.
Pumping too fast or too much can push grease past the seal into the brake drum. Grease-contaminated brake shoes must be replaced.
E-Z Lube does not replace periodic hub removal and bearing inspection.
How It Works
Internal Lubrication Path
E-Z Lube spindles feature an internal grease fitting. Injected grease travels through the spindle to the back of the inner bearing, then flows forward through the outer bearing to the hub nose.
Rotational Displacement
The hub must be rotated slowly while pumping. This movement helps the grease distribute evenly and pushes the old grease out toward the front of the spindle for removal.
Maintenance Limitations
While the E-Z Lube system allows for greasing without disassembly, it does not replace the requirement for periodic hub removal and comprehensive bearing inspection.
Diagnostic Chart
| Symptom | Check | Spec / Expected | Likely cause & fix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grease appearing at the nose of the hub during pumping. | Observe the color and consistency of the grease exiting the hub nose. | Pump until fresh grease appears. | The lubrication cycle is complete and the old grease has been displaced by fresh grease. Basis: Dexter Axle Operation, Maintenance & Service Manual (600-8000) |
| Grease contamination on brake shoes or linings. | Inspect the brake drum and linings for the presence of lubricant. | Per the applicable manual | Pumping grease too fast or in excessive amounts pushed the lubricant past the rear seal. Basis: Dexter Axle Operation, Maintenance & Service Manual (600-8000) |
| Brake system performance loss after E-Z Lube service. | Verify if grease has reached the friction surfaces of the brake shoes. | Replace grease-contaminated brake shoes. | Grease on brake linings ruins them and necessitates component replacement. Basis: Dexter Axle Operation, Maintenance & Service Manual (600-8000) |
At the Bay: Diagnose the Case
CASE 1 / 3
Grease appearing at the nose of the hub during pumping.
- Test
- Compare
- Correct
Select the next check
Basis: Dexter Axle Operation, Maintenance & Service Manual (600-8000). A likely cause is a hypothesis; confirm it with the applicable service procedure before repair.
Common Bay Mistakes
- ✕ Pumping grease too fast, forcing it past the hub seal.
- ✕ Applying too much grease without monitoring the hub nose.
- ✕ Neglecting to rotate the hub while injecting lubricant.
- ✕ Using E-Z Lube as a permanent substitute for bearing inspections.
- ✕ Attempting to clean grease-soaked brake shoes instead of replacing them.
Quick Check
Practice only — not scored.
Hands-on: Shop Test Equipment
Dial Indicator — Bearing End Play
Magnetic-base dial indicator (0.001 in) on the hub face, spindle nut adjustment
🛠 Equip your bay for this test →Symptom: Bearing service — set end play after repack.
Spec limits used
- 0.001–0.010 in — Allowable end play, double-nut wheel end (Dexter 9-15K service manual, p.64)
- 0.008 in — Nev-R-Lube 50 mm max axial end play (Dexter 059-831-00)
- illustrative only — Face runout limit (General shop practice)
Simulated readings for practice. Always follow the manufacturer's procedure and values on a real trailer.
Source: Dexter Axle Operation, Maintenance & Service Manual (600-8000)