Let’s Dive into C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″
Trailer maintenance is a necessary evil for anyone who regularly hauls a boat, ATV, or any other valuable cargo. The C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″ promises a complete and convenient solution for replacing worn or damaged trailer hubs, eliminating the hassle of sourcing individual components. C.E. Smith aims to provide a pre-assembled, pre-greased kit ready for immediate installation, making it an attractive option for both seasoned mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.
A persistent hum emanating from my trailer wheels on a recent return trip from the lake was the problem I needed to solve; it indicated a failing wheel bearing and potential hub damage. The promise of a pre-assembled hub, greased and ready to go, was particularly appealing as time was of the essence to ensure a safe and reliable trailer.
Upon unboxing, the C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″ presented a solid first impression. The hub itself felt substantial, with a clean silver finish and all the advertised components (dust cap, cotter pin, and wheel nuts) neatly included. Build quality appeared decent, though only real-world use would truly reveal its long-term resilience.
I considered a similar kit from Tie Down Engineering, but their kit required separate purchase of grease and tools adding cost and effort. The C.E. Smith kit’s all-inclusive nature, especially the pre-greased bearings, tipped the scales in its favor.
Initially, I felt cautiously optimistic. The kit seemed well-made and the pre-greased bearings were a definite plus. Whether it could truly withstand the rigors of frequent trailering and saltwater exposure remained to be seen.
Real-World Testing: Putting C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″ to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial test occurred during a 200-mile round trip to haul my boat to a fishing tournament. The conditions were mostly dry, but the launch ramp was partially submerged, exposing the hubs to freshwater. Installation was straightforward; the pre-greased bearings eliminated a messy step, and the provided hardware fit perfectly.
The hub performed flawlessly during the first trip, exhibiting no unusual noises or vibrations. I did notice a slight increase in hub temperature compared to the original hubs, though it remained within acceptable limits.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of use, including several trips involving saltwater launches and long highway hauls, the C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″ continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of bearing failure or excessive wear. I flush the bearings with fresh water after each saltwater exposure.
There is no obvious wear and tear on the hub body. I have observed some minor surface rust on the dust cap, but this is purely cosmetic.
Maintenance has been minimal; regular visual inspections and flushing with fresh water after saltwater exposure has been sufficient. In my experience, the C.E. Smith kit has provided better reliability and convenience than replacing bearings individually in my old hubs.
Breaking Down the Features of C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″
Specifications
- The C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″ is designed for a 1-3/8″ – 1-1/16″ spindle. This is a common spindle size for many smaller to mid-size boat and utility trailers.
- The bolt circle is 5 x 4.5, indicating it fits wheels with a 5-lug pattern and a 4.5-inch diameter bolt circle. This is a very common trailer wheel bolt pattern.
- The cap has a capacity of 1750, likely referring to the weight rating per hub in pounds. That gives you a total axle rating of 3500 lbs.
- The flange O.D. (outer diameter) is 6-1/2″, defining the outer dimension of the hub flange that mounts to the wheel.
- The maximum wheel size is 15″, suggesting the hub is optimized for use with wheels up to 15 inches in diameter. Larger wheels might cause clearance issues.
- The hub I.D. (inner diameter) is 1.98″, which is the inside diameter of the hub where the bearings sit.
These specifications are important because they dictate compatibility with your trailer’s axle, wheels, and overall load capacity. The weight rating is particularly critical to ensure safe trailering.
Performance & Functionality
The C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″ performs its primary function—providing a reliable and smooth-rolling wheel hub—exceptionally well. The pre-greased bearings ensure minimal friction and efficient power transfer, contributing to improved fuel economy and reduced wear on the trailer tires.
The kit excels in ease of installation and initial reliability. However, the long-term durability of the bearings, especially in harsh conditions, remains a potential area for improvement.
The kit meets expectations by providing a hassle-free hub replacement solution. It offers good performance for its intended purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″ features a simple, functional design. The materials appear to be of reasonable quality, with a cast iron or steel hub body and a stamped steel dust cap.
The pre-greased bearings eliminate the need for messy manual lubrication, simplifying the installation process. There’s essentially no learning curve involved; anyone familiar with basic trailer maintenance should be able to install it with ease.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and maintenance, the C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″ should provide several years of reliable service. Regular bearing lubrication and inspection are crucial, especially for trailers used in saltwater environments.
The kit is relatively easy to maintain; however, bearing replacement requires specialized tools and knowledge. Access to a bearing packer tool will significantly extend bearing life.
Accessories and Customization Options
The C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″ includes essential accessories like the dust cap, cotter pin, and wheel nuts. There are limited customization options for the hub itself.
It’s compatible with standard trailer wheels that meet the specified bolt pattern and size requirements. Upgrading to stainless steel wheel nuts or a different style of dust cap might be possible, but the core hub components are not typically customizable.
Pros and Cons of C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″
Pros
- Pre-greased bearings for easy and clean installation.
- Complete kit with all necessary hardware included.
- Direct fit replacement for common 1-3/8″ spindle axles.
- Relatively inexpensive compared to individual component purchases.
- Provides smooth and reliable performance.
Cons
- Long-term bearing durability in harsh conditions is unproven.
- Dust cap may be prone to rust.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″?
The C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″ is perfect for boat owners, utility trailer users, and DIY mechanics who need a quick and easy solution for replacing worn or damaged trailer hubs. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer the convenience of a pre-assembled kit over sourcing individual components.
Those who require extremely heavy-duty hubs for commercial or off-road applications, or those who prioritize premium-grade bearings with superior durability, should skip this product. Consider higher-end kits with sealed bearing options for extreme environments.
Must-have accessories include a torque wrench for tightening wheel nuts to the correct specification and a bearing packer tool for efficient lubrication during maintenance. A hub oiler kit would greatly reduce the number of times bearings need to be repacked.
Conclusion on C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″
The C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″ offers a compelling combination of convenience, affordability, and reliable performance. While long-term durability in harsh conditions remains a minor concern, the pre-greased bearings and complete hardware package make it an attractive option for many trailer owners.
The price is justified by the convenience and completeness of the kit. It saves time and effort compared to sourcing individual components.
I would personally recommend the C.E. Smith Trailer Hub Kit Package 1-3/8″ to anyone looking for a hassle-free and cost-effective trailer hub replacement solution. Replace your worn-out hubs today and enjoy peace of mind on your next haul!