Bby Blue's trailer has Dexter D35 axles. They came from the factory with the EZ-Lube system. This is the system where there is a zirk fitting on the end of the axle and the grease goes through the axle and enters the hub behind the inner bearing. It then moves towards the outside forcing the old grease out the hub.

I have two problems.

First, the end caps do not create much of a seal. I found evidence of water intrusion on one and I can see why. I could essentially take it off by hand, without a hammer and block walking it off. I'm thinking bead of permatex before installation my solve this issue.

Second, though it came from the factory with EZ-Luve, 1axle has been converted to a bearing buddy type system. The Zirk was removed and a generic bearing buddy was installed. This provides a better seal and though the grease looked dirty it didn't have evidence of water intrusion.

Should I convert the entire system to bearing buddies or convert it all back to the EZ-lube. I'm thinking if I go back to EZ lube and use a bed of RTV it should seal up well. I would prefer to use the EZ lube system as I like the idea of being able to get some of the old grease out as I am pumping in new stuff.

Which way would you go?

Thoughts.

I have the same type of axle,and was told not use use bearing buddies on them. Grease supposedly has a hard time getting to the back bearing. I can't vouch for this as fact, just what I was told.

Your dust caps are shot. Buy 4 new dust caps and install them with a thin film of grease around the freshly cleaned inner surface of the hub. Put a thin film of grease on the rubber caps as well. I have the same axles and hubs and this has worked well for me to keep water out and avoid adhesives. Also, bear in mind, the water may be getting in through the back... Might be a good time to buy and install 4 new seals.

Bearing buddies are not meant to pack grease into the bearings. The zerk on them is used to pressurize the bearing cavity a little prior to dunking the trailer with hot hubs.

Done. New seals, bearings and endcaps are in the garage as we speak.

Good point about the BBs Dave. I wasn't sure how to state it. You still have to pack the bearings by hand, the BB just keeps the water out, not replace the grease in the system over time.

SB, sounds like some basic, good ol' maintenance and you'll be good as new!