Bearings for 5.2, 6 & 7k Axles

Replacing Trailer Bearings can be a confusing process but some are a little more confusing than others. The 5.2k, 6k & 7K 1.25″ bearings are a prime example of this.

The key reason for this confusion is that all three share an identical inside diameter of 1.25″ but are rated for different weight carrying capacities.

Looking at the photo below, we can see they are vastly different in cage size, roller size and outside diameter.

So let’s begin with the most ideal way to find your size. If the bearing is in good condition, we can identify it by the number stamped into it. You may need to clean up your bearing with a degreaser to aid in this process.

The various identifying numbers can be seen here. They are ordered from left to right: (L67048), (15123)  & (14125A)

Outer Bearing Number Outer Bearing Size Inner Bearing Number Inner Bearing Size Weight Capacity
67048 1.25” 25580 1.75” 5200lbs
15123 1.25” 25580 1.75” 6000lbs
14125 1.25” 25580 1.75” 7000lbs

In the event that the bearings are destroyed or are no longer available, we can look to other parts of the assembly for answers. The diameter of your dust cap will increase with the size of the bearing. Dust cap diameter coupled with number of lugs is a strong indication of what size bearing you need. You could also look to the diameter of the outer race as a telling sign. The chart below shows how the information corresponds.

Diameter of Dust Cap Bearing # Weight Capacity Typical Bolt Pattern
2.328” 67048 5200lbs Demountable or 6 lug
2.441” 15123 6000lbs 6 Lug
2.72” 14125 7000lbs 8 Lug

Grease Seals

Identifying the Grease seal is the final step. Usually there are only two seals used in conjunction with these 1.25″ bearings. One seal has an Inside Diameter of 2.125” and the other 2.25”.

Dexter brand axles made pre 1998 often used 2.125 and post 1998, 2.25”.

Loadrite and Magic Tilt axles often use 2.125” but may also have 2.25″.

Proper measurement of a grease or oil seal

Notable exceptions.

There are often anomalies when it comes to Trailer Parts. Some trailers will have parts that are atypical. The older the trailer, the more likely this will be the case.

  1. There can be 6 on 5.5” hubs/drums/rotors that use 1-1/16” x 1-3/8” bearings. These can be weeded out by checking the brake flange on the axle. They will have a 4 bolt brake flange as opposed to a 5 bolt brake flange.

    The 4 & 5 bolt brake flanges

  2. If you have demountable “mobile home” style drums, industry standards for these were very inconsistent. Having these should raise a red flag in your mind and you should over scrutinize the whole assembly to be certain your getting the right parts. Please use this blog for further assistance with demountable drums.
  3. There are many discrepancies amongst trailer parts in general, please contact us by phone to discuss your concerns. We can be reached at 1-800-453-7379

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