Forum Discussion

rbp111's avatar
rbp111
Explorer
Oct 19, 2013

nev-r-lube axles

I own a 2003 Alpenlite fifth-wheel trailer(which I am very pleased to have). The trailer has nev-r-lube axles. I have taken the trailer in the past and had the axles checked out along with other items. The common thing said was that the nev-r-lube axles can't be checked out. Well it is going on 11 years, and there have been quite a few miles put on the rig.

Is there a way they can check out the axles? Or ...?
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Oct 21, 2013
    Plenty of posts on neverlube failures. Never seems like a simple repair.
  • Huntindog's avatar
    Huntindog
    Explorer
    Oct 21, 2013
    slotsavegas wrote:
    Dexter only warrants these bearings for a period of 5 years. Considering the cost of a new hub and bearing as well as possible damage brought on by a failed bearing. I will have all 4 of mine pressed out and new bearings installed every 5 years.
    By the way, the Dexter hub and bearing is very costly. Timken (not sure of part #) replacement bearings are much cheaper and if replaced before the hub is damaged even better to replace early.


    I believe the warranty is 5 years or 100,000 miles.
    That doesn't mean it's junk at that point.
    Actually it's a pretty good warranty.
    What is the warranty on standard bearings?
    Around the block?:B For certain it isn't anywhere close to what the Neverlubes are. Yet you don't see people fretting over them when the warranty is over.

    As for the cost. What does it cost to have regular bearins repacked every year? Total that up for 5 years and see how the math works out.
    The main causes of regular bearing failures is improper adjustment ,and improper packing/greasing. This is a non factor for the Neverlubes.
  • RJsfishin's avatar
    RJsfishin
    Explorer
    Oct 21, 2013
    Sorry, I misread the never lube as ez lube.
    I keep forgetting we are in the disposable age !
  • slotsavegas's avatar
    slotsavegas
    Explorer
    Oct 21, 2013
    Dexter only warrants these bearings for a period of 5 years. Considering the cost of a new hub and bearing as well as possible damage brought on by a failed bearing. I will have all 4 of mine pressed out and new bearings installed every 5 years.
    By the way, the Dexter hub and bearing is very costly. Timken (not sure of part #) replacement bearings are much cheaper and if replaced before the hub is damaged even better to replace early.
  • Huntindog's avatar
    Huntindog
    Explorer
    Oct 20, 2013
    RAS43 wrote:
    RJsfishin wrote:
    You can believe it or not, in theory wheel bearings are good for life !
    But that only works if they always had grease, and never had water, moisture, or dirt in them.


    Also, they have to be adjusted correctly! Too loose or tight and longevity is much shorter.

    Never lubes are different.
    Never need repacking or greasing and their is no adjustment to mess up.
    It is a sealed bearing cartridge similar to what comes on most autos nowadays.

    The inspection consists of checking the play.
  • RAS43's avatar
    RAS43
    Explorer III
    Oct 20, 2013
    RJsfishin wrote:
    You can believe it or not, in theory wheel bearings are good for life !
    But that only works if they always had grease, and never had water, moisture, or dirt in them.


    Also, they have to be adjusted correctly! Too loose or tight and longevity is much shorter.
  • RJsfishin's avatar
    RJsfishin
    Explorer
    Oct 20, 2013
    You can believe it or not, in theory wheel bearings are good for life !
    But that only works if they always had grease, and never had water, moisture, or dirt in them.

    If you jack up each wheel, spin it, and it is quiet,...or not much more than a whirrring sound, you can be 99% sure the bearings are good, no matter how old they are. Any bearing w/ a pitted or rough surface, will make a very noticeable growling sound.that grease won't stop. If I fine a questionable growl, I give it a shot of grease, if it doesn't quiet it, I'll change it. Otherwise they are good to go.
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Oct 20, 2013
    If you don't replace them I would consider buying a set or two to carry on the road. Much easier repair if you have the right part with you. Besides if you carry a spare then the existing will never give out ;)

About Technical Issues

Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,194 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 29, 2025