Hub Removal
- Safely elevate and support a trailer frame for hub maintenance.
- Perform methodical disassembly of grease and oil hub components.
- Execute hub removal without damaging spindle surfaces or bearing cones.
- Jack stands — Support the unit frame after lifting to ensure safety while working underneath.
- 2-1/2" socket — Unscrew the oil cap from oil-lubricated hubs.
- Drain pan — Collect lubricant when removing oil caps from oil hubs.
- Gear puller — Assist in removing the hub if it is stuck on the spindle.
- Pry tool — Remove the grease cap by prying the edge out from the hub.
Lift the unit by the frame — never the axle or suspension — and never go under it unless supported by jack stands.
How It Works
Critical Support Points
Safety during hub removal begins with proper lifting. The unit must be lifted by the frame rather than the axle or suspension components to prevent structural damage or equipment failure. Never work under a unit unless it is properly supported by jack stands.
Lubrication Type Variations
The removal process differs slightly based on the lubrication system. Grease hubs utilize a press-fit grease cap that is pried off, whereas oil hubs utilize a threaded oil cap that requires a 2-1/2" socket for removal and a pan to manage fluid drainage.
Bearing Protection
During the final removal of the hub from the spindle, care must be taken to maintain control of the assembly. The technician must ensure the outer bearing cone does not fall free, which prevents component damage or contamination.
Step-by-Step Procedure
0/6 doneDiagnostic Chart
| Symptom | Check | Spec / Expected | Likely cause & fix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hub will not slide off the spindle by hand. | Inspect brake adjustment and determine if a mechanical puller is required. | Per the applicable manual | Brake shoes may be expanded against the drum or the hub may be seized. Basis: Lippert Trailer Axle Owner's Manual (Rev 03.18.2014) |
| Oil leaking during cap removal. | Position a drain pan under the hub before loosening the cap. | Use a 2-1/2" socket for removal | Standard drainage of lubricant from an oil-filled hub assembly. Basis: Lippert Trailer Axle Owner's Manual (Rev 03.18.2014) |
| Grease cap edge is deformed or stuck. | Use a pry tool to move around the edge of the cap. | Per the applicable manual | Corrosion or overly tight press-fit in the hub bore. Basis: General shop practice |
At the Bay: Diagnose the Case
CASE 1 / 3
Hub will not slide off the spindle by hand.
- Test
- Compare
- Correct
Select the next check
Basis: Lippert Trailer Axle Owner's Manual (Rev 03.18.2014). A likely cause is a hypothesis; confirm it with the applicable service procedure before repair.
Common Bay Mistakes
- ✕ Lifting the trailer by the axle or suspension components.
- ✕ Going under a trailer supported only by a jack.
- ✕ Allowing the outer bearing cone to fall onto the floor during hub removal.
- ✕ Forgetting to back off the brakes when the hub is stuck.
- ✕ Failing to use a drain pan when opening an oil-style hub.
Quick Check
Practice only — not scored.
Plan the Service Sequence
Planning practice only. Follow the applicable manufacturer's instructions, employer safety program and qualified supervision on real equipment.
Plan the first action. Compare the service steps with the bay mistakes.
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: Lippert Trailer Axle Owner's Manual (Rev 03.18.2014) — 4