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Jammer · 10-14-2010, 10:25 PM

Just had a seal failure on my nev-r-lube bearing. Apparently they're filled with oil. It's dripping out.

They are supposed to last longer than 2500 miles, aren't they?

halimer · 10-15-2010, 12:12 AM

I don't have the Dexter manual at hand, but I believe the warranty is 5 years.

Mark

Frank's Trailer Works · 10-15-2010, 04:43 AM

Jammer you are having a string of bad luck with that trailer. I thought a vintage rig keeps the tool box dust free, but that rig of yours is putting you to the paces. They should be filled with grease, not oil.

Ag&Au · 10-15-2010, 07:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jammer

Just had a seal failure on my nev-r-lube bearing. Apparently they're filled with oil. It's dripping out.

They are supposed to last longer than 2500 miles, aren't they?

I believe 2010 or maybe 2009, is the first year they were used, so there won't be much of an experience base. Mine have about 8,000 mi with no problem. Where is the oil showing up?

Ken

boondockdad · 10-15-2010, 08:01 AM

My '08 has the nev-r-lube
no probs

Jammer · 10-15-2010, 09:55 AM

It's working its way out from the dust cap in the center of the wheel and then kinda drips down the wheel and over the tire. I haven't pulled the drum and have no idea what things look like in there.

62overlander there have been six problems I would characterize as serious. The thermostat wire that wasn't connected, the refrigerant line that was rubbing on the housing, the black tank sensor, the water pump, the tail light, and this. Other than that it's just been fit and finish problems, latches, interior lights, that kind of thing. I don't think that's unusual, from what I've read, for people who actually use their traylah and take it on the road and stuff.

Mikethefixit · 10-15-2010, 10:54 AM

Jammer
I'd pull the offending hub or hubs and clean and check the bearings. I'd almost bet you have a bad one. Its getting hot and the grease is getting to its drip point and seeping out.
If ya can't, Id get it to a dealer for warranty service and if no warranty service is available Id do it myself,You cant afford to lose than spindle.
GOOD LUCK
Roger

Ag&Au · 10-15-2010, 10:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by finalcutjoe

My '08 has the nev-r-lube
no probs

I guess they been around longer than I thought.

kennethowens · 10-15-2010, 11:01 AM

just a bit too much grease in a closed cavity can expand and push
through....may not be a "failure" - take the cap off and check it.
Remove a bit of the grease from the cap and wipe the mating surface
of the cap clean and put it back on. It should be fine, if not just get a new cap.

Ag&Au · 10-15-2010, 11:31 AM

There seems to be some that do not realize that the Nev-R-Lube bearings are not constructed in the same way as convention trailer bearings.

One important difference is that there is no regreasing and no repacking involved.

The file attached to post #1 on in this thread: http://www.airforums.com/forums/f465...ion-70117.html - has a lot of good information and diagrams.

Regards,

Ken

Gene · 10-15-2010, 11:35 AM

If I recall correctly, drip point on wheel bearing grease is high enough so that the bearings are much too hot—something like 350˚ or 500˚. Ken, do you mean there's no grease in the bearings or you don't have to grease them?

Gene

boondockdad · 10-15-2010, 11:39 AM

from Dexter user manual: "NOTE: A slight amount of grease weeping from the seal area is normal. Excessive leakage may indicate abnormal bearing operation."

Ag&Au · 10-15-2010, 11:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CrawfordGene

If I recall correctly, drip point on wheel bearing grease is high enough so that the bearings are much too hot—something like 350˚ or 500˚. Ken, do you mean there's no grease in the bearings or you don't have to grease them?

Gene

I actually edited the post since I said that.
There is some grease, but in is not field replaceable.

Ken

kennethowens · 10-15-2010, 12:23 PM

What is the hand-touch temp of the hub after towing a while.

If the hub is Very hot - the hub is too tight causing the over-heating.

That hub went on and it can come off!!

The best Dexter or anyone else can do is put a seal front / back to keep
contaminates out and the grease in. Tighten the hub too much and the
grease gets hot.

MountaineerStreamer · 10-15-2010, 12:38 PM

From the "for what it's worth department" - - I've had these never lubes on our 38' fifthwheel for 5+years and over 40,000 miles. Barely warm to the touch and no leakage.

As I understand Dexter's manual, they are not serviceable - - replace only.

I'd find someone for warranty service ASAP.

Best Wishes

Jammer · 10-15-2010, 12:41 PM

Thanks, all. I'll keep a close eye on it and be sure it isn't running hot until I can get it fixed.

dznf0g · 10-15-2010, 02:56 PM

Dexter told me that Nevr-Lube started a little after the 07 model year. Mine was built in July, 06 and has Nevr-Lube hubs.

stan.ollie · 10-15-2010, 03:34 PM

Ours is an '06 34' mfd in March, 06. No Nev-R-Lube issues except the dust caps. A couple tend to fall off when the wheels are removed for rotation etc.