Replace bearings or go with a hub kit

[fishinrick]

If I am replacing the bearings on my trailer what are the draw backs from just replacing them with a hub kit?

[1stinLA]

Price! You can get a set of bearings and seal for cheap. a lot of hub kits still need to have the bearings packed before installing. I trust a bearing I packed and checked, but not one someone else did while trying to get home early.

[F2008]

When I did a re-furb on my trailer (single axle - no brakes) I planned on doing the same thing. I bought the new hubs with the races, bearings and inner seal already installed. During the install I could see etched on the outer bearing was "Made in China". So I checked the "old" bearings I was replacing to find they were "Made in Germany". Needless to say I bit the bullet, got dirty and washed, re-packed and re-installed the old bearings. I carry one of the "Made in China" hubs as an emergency spare.

If your bearings are badly worn or pitted and really need replacing I'd buy quality bearings & races and install them with new seals. If you'd really rather go the new hub route I would make sure it was a well respected quality product with like components.