But the thing is, I didn't pump any grease at all from August through to April when I discovered the water in the hub. That was the first time I had the rubber cap off. At that time I reached around and sure enough I felt the grease coming through the inner seal. Both times there's been a seal failure,it's been on the right side. I still haven't pumped grease on the left side and when I replaced the bearings, the left side looked just fine. Both wheels have traveled the same distance but only one have blown two seals.
You may may be right about the sleeve but it sure feels and sounds like solid steel...and remember the grease port is in that section of the spindle. Bob G. tells me that his Triton came with wear sleeve that is made to be changed periodically....if I understood what he was telling me.
i tell you what. First thing next week i will call Tie Down and ask if they put a replaceable sleeve on their spindles. If they do I will buy you the best barbecue lunch in OKC the next time you come to town.
BTW, That red metal seal in the picture is just like the one that I had instant failure with. The grease did blow right through it.