First Impressions of Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085
The Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 might not be the sexiest piece of gear, but it’s a critical component for anyone who owns a trailer. It’s a replacement grease seal designed to keep the grease in your trailer’s wheel bearings where it belongs, preventing costly damage and potentially dangerous failures on the road. It’s manufactured by Tekonsha, a trusted name in trailer parts and accessories.
My trailer had been making some unusual noises lately, a tell-tale sign that the wheel bearings might be running dry. I knew that neglected bearings could lead to a complete wheel failure, so preventative maintenance was key. I was looking for a reliable grease seal to replace the old, worn ones and the Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 seemed like a solid option based on the manufacturer’s reputation.
The seals arrived in a simple package, two per pack as advertised. Upon initial inspection, they appeared well-made, with a clean, consistent rubber edge and a sturdy metal backing. They felt robust and ready to tackle the tough job of keeping grease where it’s needed.
I considered cheaper, generic grease seals, but I’ve learned the hard way that cutting corners on critical parts can be a recipe for disaster. I chose the Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 for the peace of mind that comes with a reputable brand and a product designed for the specific application. I was cautiously optimistic that these would solve my problem and keep my trailer rolling smoothly.
Honestly, opening a pack of grease seals isn’t the most thrilling experience, but I was relieved to see a product that looked and felt like it would do the job. Replacing wheel bearings isn’t fun, and I wanted to do it right the first time. Hopefully, the Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 would live up to expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 to the Test
First Use Experience
The Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 was installed on my single-axle utility trailer, which I use frequently for hauling landscaping materials and occasionally for longer trips to the lumber yard. The installation process itself wasn’t a direct test of the seal, but rather a replacement of the bearing assembly along with the new Tekonsha seals. The real test would come on the road.
The initial test involved a short haul of gravel, about 50 miles round trip, including both highway and gravel road conditions. I was particularly interested in how the seals would perform under the strain of a loaded trailer and the vibrations of the rougher gravel road. The trailer pulled smoothly and the wheel hubs remained cool to the touch, a good sign that the bearings were properly lubricated.
The installation of the Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 was relatively straightforward; however, proper seating is crucial to avoid leaks. I used a seal driver tool to ensure even pressure and avoid damaging the seal during installation. There were no immediate issues after installation and the initial run.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including a couple of longer trips exceeding 300 miles each, the Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 seals have performed admirably. There have been no signs of grease leakage or any increase in wheel bearing temperature. The trailer continues to pull smoothly and quietly.
The seals appear to be holding up well to the elements, with no visible signs of cracking or deterioration. Regular inspection of the wheel hubs has revealed no issues. Maintaining the seals is simple, mostly involving checking for leaks during routine trailer maintenance.
My previous experience with cheaper grease seals was less than stellar, with some failing within a few months and leading to messy grease leaks and potential bearing damage. The Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 has so far outperformed those significantly, offering a noticeable improvement in reliability and peace of mind. This far into testing, I’d say these seals provide better reliability over the standard auto parts store seals.
Breaking Down the Features of Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085
Specifications
The Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 has the following specifications:
- Outer Dimension (OD): 3.378 inches. This is the critical measurement that ensures the seal fits snugly into the hub assembly.
- Inner Dimension (ID): 2.085 inches. This measurement corresponds to the diameter of the spindle that the seal rides against.
- Material: Likely a combination of rubber or nitrile for the sealing lip and a steel or metal case for structural support. The exact material composition isn’t explicitly stated, but it appears robust.
- Quantity: Two seals per package.
These specifications are crucial for proper fit and function. The OD and ID dimensions must match the requirements of your specific trailer hub and spindle. The material quality ensures that the seal can withstand the heat, pressure, and constant friction of the wheel bearings.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 is to retain grease within the wheel bearing assembly. This prevents the ingress of water and contaminants, ensuring proper lubrication and extending bearing life. It achieves this quite effectively.
The seals have performed reliably in both dry and wet conditions, maintaining a tight seal and preventing grease from leaking out. Their functionality is simple but essential: keep the grease in and the dirt and water out. They meet this expectation admirably.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward – a circular seal with a rubber lip designed to press against the spindle and a metal case for structural integrity. The build quality appears excellent, with a clean, precise finish and no visible defects. The weight is negligible.
Installation requires some mechanical aptitude and ideally a seal driver tool, but the design itself doesn’t present any particular challenges. Once installed correctly, the seals require no further adjustment or interaction.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on several months of use, the Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 appears to be durable. Assuming proper installation and regular bearing maintenance, these seals should last for several years.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving visual inspection for leaks during routine trailer maintenance. Replacement is straightforward, but it does require disassembling the wheel hub.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are no specific accessories or customization options for grease seals. The seal itself is a standardized component. The only variation comes in the OD and ID dimensions to match different trailer hub and spindle sizes. It’s compatible with any standard wheel bearing grease.
Pros and Cons of Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085
Pros
- Reliable sealing performance: Effectively keeps grease in and contaminants out, protecting wheel bearings.
- Durable construction: Appears to be well-made with quality materials, promising a long service life.
- Trusted brand: Tekonsha is a reputable manufacturer of trailer parts and accessories, providing peace of mind.
- Relatively easy installation: Assuming you have the right tools and some mechanical knowledge, installation is straightforward.
- Essential preventative maintenance: Prevents costly wheel bearing failures and potential safety hazards.
Cons
- Price: At $73.99 for two seals, it’s more expensive than generic alternatives.
- Installation requires some mechanical skill: Not a completely DIY-friendly project for everyone, may require professional installation.
Who Should Buy Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085?
The Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 is perfect for trailer owners who prioritize reliability and longevity. It’s an excellent choice for those who regularly haul heavy loads or travel long distances. If you value preventative maintenance and want to avoid costly wheel bearing failures, these seals are a worthwhile investment.
Those on a tight budget or who only use their trailer infrequently might consider cheaper alternatives. However, the potential cost of a bearing failure far outweighs the price difference. Anyone uncomfortable working on their trailer’s wheel bearings should seek professional installation.
A seal driver tool is a must-have accessory for proper installation. It ensures even pressure and prevents damage to the seal. High-quality wheel bearing grease is also essential for optimal performance.
Conclusion on Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085
The Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 is a solid investment for any trailer owner seeking reliable, long-lasting grease seals. While it’s more expensive than generic options, the superior performance and durability justify the price.
The price is justified due to the cost savings on maintenance and the high reliability provided by Tekonsha products. I would definitely recommend it.
If you value peace of mind and want to protect your trailer’s wheel bearings, the Tekonsha 5606 Grease Seal Od: 3.378 / Id: 2.085 is a smart choice. Upgrade your trailer’s seals today!