I like the word retired much better. I'm really glad you are able to weather this without too much difficulty.

 

I have been trying to powderize a couple of the bearings on my Propride hitch. I guess if it was a wheel bearing I might have heard something first. A few more pics when I get the rebuild done.

 

They get water inside every year. I pull the cap, use a hypo grease needle and go through the upper bearing into the cavity and pump/keep them full of grease. Water always comes out. Marine grease is really a good option with water issues and bearings.

 

Holy smokes Eric, that bearing is toast!
Back when I bought my Hensley used it had a wet bearing from a dented cap, I replaced that one and another that just didn't look or feel "right" and they have all been dry and OK the few times I've peeked at them over the years. I think this Winter I will be pulling them all to give the hitch a much needed repaint.
What do you think about the new 7.3 gasser and 10 speed? I can't wait to read some towing reports once they are finally in the hands of users.
I like the term "Pre-tired", I will retire once she does and we can hit the road!

 

The torque curve looks amazing, over 400 lb ft from 1500 RPM through a 10 speed should tow really well.

 

I admit, it was owner abuse. Never serviced them at all, my bad. Good thought on the marine grease. I have learned my lesson. Maybe they should have put in a grease zerk like the axles have.

I think a lot of the 7.3 10 spd combo. Good chance one will be in my driveway next spring.

 

I ran into the same problem with my hitch, I use marine grease now and things are much better.

 

I had been using regular marine grease on our boat trailer, but on very hot days & winding roads the disc brake axle would blow off the caps and throw grease all over.
The drop point on most marine grease is 500 deg.
Switched to Lubrimatic 11402 marine grease which has a drop point of 550 deg and no more issues.

 

Hooked up and going to a State Park Lake 30 minutes from home when I leave work. Boat is hooked to the Dodge. It may rain tomorrow but I think it is going anyway. It will be good to get away for a couple of days.

 

Another cheap option if you don't need 14oz is Hobo Freight: https://www.harborfreight.com/marine...ase-97844.html.

 

The Sta-Lube Marine Grease has a drop point of 500 deg, which is fine for drum brakes.

 

If you're using solid caps on your hubs for the boat trailer... get rid of them and use the caps with rubber seals. They will release the pressure and save your axle seals.

 

They are rubber dust caps to keep dirt from getting into the grease fittings.

 

No need for them.... let the rubber vent the pressure, especially if you pumped your hubs full of grease, although you really should do that on any high speed rotating bearing ... if you are. However for the bearings on the Pro Pride pack em' full.

 

FL sent me a bill today for turnpike use to the Keys and back to Orlando, $96.69. Ouch! I have a NC transponder that is supposed to work with SunPass, it didn't.