Hub kit for long trips

[troutbeer]

I'm putting together a hub kit for use on long trips in case of bearing failure. I realize that good maintenance is the best insurance, but the piece of mind of having a spare kit for trips to Canada are worth it to me. I recently got a good deal on an OEM Shorelandr kit (SS734) which I plan to have prepared in a box with tools, rags, grease, etc.


I'm thinking of pre-packing the bearings and installing them in the hub and tapping in the rear seal. I would vac-bag the whole thing to keep it together and keep moisture out to prevent corrosion. I figure this will save me quite a bit of time during a roadside repair. Simply pull the failed hub off and slide the new one on after cleaning up the spindle. Can anyone think of any reason not to pre-pack and install the bearings and rear seal in the hub as I describe?

Thanks.

TB

[skeeter012]

No, it is an excellent plan, and who wants to be packing bearings on the side of the road, possibly in the dark?

[gofishwalleye]

I carry one of these in my boat box (spare stuff)

http://www.cabelas.com/product/Pre-G...railer+hub+kit

You didn't mention any size in your post. Here is an assortment of hubs from Northern Tool. They are not quite as pricey as Cabela's. http://www.northerntool.com/shop/too...-hub-sets+hubs

[egladding]

Originally Posted by gofishwalleye

I carry one of these in my boat box (spare stuff)

http://www.cabelas.com/product/Pre-G...railer+hub+kit

I think Walmart carries that same kit also.

Great idea vacuum sealing the whole kit!

[brigeton]

Originally Posted by egladding

I think Walmart carries that same kit also.

Great idea vacuum sealing the whole kit!

As long as your vacuum sealer doesn't suck in axle grease. I think I'd just use a zip lock bag.

[still fishin']

After having bearing issues last year and this year, I bought such a kit before this year's trip to Quebec. It warded off evil spirits just having it with me. Good $45 investment.

[MarkG]

Excellent idea.

But don't forget other stuff in your kit. Also pack new cotter pin or lockwashers,a roll of shop towels,some sort of solvent,maybe a can of brake cleaner,some nitril gloves,,because if you burn up a bearing, will likely have some cleanup on the spindle to do. and also bring a small grease gun so can top off the new hub with the right amount of grease after you have installed.

If going to carry a hub, make sure you have EVERYTHING to do the job.