King trailer - new Vortex hubs

[BruceDrake]

I chatted with the King trailer rep at the Portland Boat show and he gave a good sales pitch for their new Vortex axle hubs. They can be used on any of the King trailers (or added to existing King trailers for a modest amount - as I recall $70 per axle but could be wrong on that). They have a 100,000 mile or 6 year limited warranty*. (Enough miles for all of Marty's trailer trips.)

Does anyone know more about the Vortx Hubs? http://www.tiedown.com/pdf/c1157.pdf

I've heard that the oil bath system on EZ loader hubs are finicky.
Has anyone had problems with the oil bath hubs?

*1 year parts/labor, 5 additional years on parts

[Nomad55]

The trouble with oil bath wheel bearing systems is that they are primarily used on rigs that are in constant use. They do vent a bit. As they heat up and cool condensation develops which if not driven to re-coat the bearing surfaces with oil rust starts to form. I know I don't use my trailer enough during boating season to properly keep the bearing lubricated as required not too mention the off season. Also servicing the oil bath type is not a DIY proposition.

The lubrication system in the link you posted at least is serviceable by the average driveway mechanic provided you use their grease/oil.

Melanie

[McSkagit Tim Jones]

Hubs by Tie Down Engineering

Years ago I rebuilt my Calkins two axle trailer. i bought disc brakes from the King trailer plant in Marysville. All new lines, rebuilt the master cylinder, installed the backup solenoid...everything. They lasted exactly one launching and froze up. I had to use a BIG hammer to get the calipers off the discs.

Never have had much regard for anything made by Tie Down Engineering since....

McSkagit