A Mechanical Idiot Needs An Explanation

P

Pat Anderson

New member
I have these hubs that Gary Estes put on last year before Powell. They have a red indicator ring around the zerk. Some of the rings are now all the way in flush with the surrounding metal, and some are sticking out 1/8th of an inch or more. Which hubs should I grease? The ones that are sticking out because new grease goes in in front of some plate on the ring that pushes it IN? Or does the grease go in behind the ring and push it OUT? Gary didn't say and I didn't ask. I guess he thought that it would be obvious to anybody who isn't an idiot...

The writing on the hubs is so small I can't even read it with a magnifying glass, so I have no idea what brand they are or what to Google. I did try "red indicator ring on hub" and got nada. I tried greasing one of each, and I didn't see either one move in or out. Gary said the #1 problem with these hubs is that people want to over-grease them, he said I ought to be able to go a year, and then just bring it back to him. So I am going to leave well enough alone unless somebody can figure out what the hell I am trying to ask here and tell me they know - really know - the answer.

Thanks.
 
Pat- If you want to "know - really know - the answer", call this number (206) 999-2320. Since Gary has dealt with me, I'm sure he will consider your question far from the idiot range on the mechanical knowledge relative value scale. :lol:
 
Pat I'm not sure but I think this might be part of your answer:

Great for marine applications; the stainless steel construction provides the best in corrosion resistance. The design makes Bearing Buddy an easy way to protect your bearings by keeping water out and ensuring enough grease is in the hub.

Features:

* Replaces the grease cap in the axle hub
* Prevents wheel-bearing failure
o Keeps water and dirt out of hubs and bearings
o Allows boat trailer wheels to be completely submerged
o Stops corrosion and pitting on bearings
* Provides easily accessible grease fitting
o Makes adding grease to the bearings quick and simple
* Maintains slight, controlled pressure (3 psi) with spring-loaded piston, preventing water from entering hub
* Allows visual monitoring of grease levels with blue indicator ring
o Ring sits flush with top of cylinder when full
o If ring is below top, add grease to move piston outward 1/8"
* Prevents overfilling and rear seal damage with automatic pressure-relief feature
o Grease seeps around piston edges and into barrel when full
* Constructed of stainless steel
o Ensures longer-lasting fit than plastic or aluminum products
* Includes rubber covers
* Installs easily
 
Pat- Does this look familiar?

129001_lg.jpg


If so they're Red Eye Bearing Protectors

You can see them installed in the middle of this video:

http://www.etrailer.com/tv-kodiak-brake ... 87100.aspx

I think they work pretty much like Bearing Buddies, just (supposedly) seal better. Don't overfill them is the rule, so add grease until they back out, but I'll let someone who has them tell you directly, as I'd be speculating on the exact procedure!

Joe. :teeth :thup
 
Pat – the reason your search came up without the info you were seeking is you left out one important word. I changed the search string to “red indicator ring on trailer hub” and got many good hits for the hubs. But then I use bing instead of google and that could be a factor also.


Dave dlt.gif
www.tolandmarine.com
 
I think Barry's post has the answer - we want to add grease until the indicator rings are out about 1/8th of an inch. The video of them being installed shows they really are just Bearing Buddies on steroids...


Sea Wolf":2pk8zlmm said:
Pat Anderson":2pk8zlmm said:
Joe, those are the ones!
Click to expand...

Now all we need is someone familiar with them to fill us in on their use/operation!

Joe. :teeth :thup
Click to expand...
 
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