Vault Hub Grease Cap Removal

[hoytkimbershimano]

2009 Ranger Dual Axle.

Any advice on getting the cap off? Rubber mallet? It should be reusable right? They are 9 years old - no known issues, but I’d like to inspect before going on a 500 mile round trip.

Thanks
tim

[billnorman1]

I think you should read this before you start. I'm sure there are members with enough experience to do this without this reference but it's a good read.

https://www.pacifictrailers.com/blog...ication-system

[sooner magic]

I had that system on my 188vs and to answer your question, mine unscrewed. Note: Do not over tighten, the caps are plastic of some kind and will crack. Need I tell you how I know that...

[hoytkimbershimano]

Thanks. I have read those. I want to check them because the “button” isn’t sticking out as far as I have read they should, but no obvious leaking that I can see. Prior to a long trip and given that I am at 9years without the warranty, I prefer to be safe!

Thanks,
tim

[billproxs]

I used a block of wood and hard mallet. Use red lock tight when putting back on.

[billnorman1]

I used a block of wood and hard mallet. Use red lock tight when putting back on.

I don't think red loctite is a sealant, but if it worked for you O.K.

[billproxs]

Loctite is whats recommended, red.

[billproxs]

[billnorman1]

Indeed it's included in that kit. I was just leaning toward the manufacturer, probably in error:


Add Hybrid Oil Lubricant to the inside of the VAULT protector. Apply a thin film of Permatex High-Temp RTV Silicone Gasket Maker to the bore surface. Install the protector with a soft mallet until the shoulder seats against the hub nose.
OIL SEALS

[billproxs]

Add a slight flim of RTV silicone to rear bore and rear seal, before driving seal in. Apply Loctite retaining compound to shoulder of front Vault protector, then install.

[hoytkimbershimano]

Thanks for the info. For what it is worth, I had emailed the company(UFP) and they recommended LocTite.

Actually, their first response was to not do anything and any leaks would be obvious. Before a long trip, I’d prefer to be sure...

thanks
tim

[billproxs]

I have complete videos on utube fishing showing complete vault precedure.

[hoytkimbershimano]

Just an update: Pulled the cap off one wheel tonight. Grease was dripping out. The stuff in the hub was a little runnier and greener in color than the tube. The cap was still full too. My hub DID have the hole for a grease fitting so I gently added some and also replaced the majority that was in the cap. All in all relatively pleased with the condition for a 9 year old trailer, although it is very low mileage.

The wheel spun freely when jacked up. Just and occasional sound from rotor to pad. Torn if I should replace the actuator inner member or not...

Thanks for the help and videos. I will do the others in a couple days.