Teardrops n Tiny Travel Trailers

I just purchased a Dexter axle with 5 1/2" dia hubs from a local distributer. I also got 13" whells and tires cause I wanted a larger tire for a better look. THe 12" tires just looked too small for a 9' trailer. When I tried to mount the 13" wheel it wouldn't sit right and wobbled as it turned. I didn't torque the lugs down but had them tight. I didn't have the wobble with the 12" tires/wheels. When I checked the Dexter cataloge there are tow hubs, a 5 1/2" dia hub for 8"-12" wheels ONLY and a 6 1/2" dia hub for 13"-15" wheels ONLY. I would have thought that since this distributer deals with axles they would have known this. When I called they siad they, the 13" wheel should work. I will go and change out the hubs tomorrow for the RIGHT ones. They didn't seem to think it is a big problem. I think it is. What do you think? Anyone else had this problem? I want it to be right and not to have any problems down the road. (No pun intended!) By the way, this is a great forum and I have learned alot just reading everything here. Thanks for all the great info.

YAY it's a big problem...ya can't have ya wheels wobbling unless you're making a Keyston Cops movie. I would say the distibutor screwed up and needs to get their act together...My first thought on why is that the pilot hole on the wheel is slightly too small for the hub or the off set on the wheels is wrong for the hub, something is not allowing the wheel to set properly on the hub...definitely get that fixed!!!!!
madjack

I knew you would reply fast. Thanks for the info. I'll see what else if anyone has had this problem. Thanks Madjack.

Well I can't answer to specifics since I am not there looking at the axle/wheel combo...but wobbling is not good unless you have been sampling Chip's pikle juice...the distributor should have know better or............something!!!!
madjack

If your wheel is wobbling it didn't go on all the way. But without more detail I can't tell you why. The distributor should have known better. You might be better off calling the manufacturer for specific details. Your distributor might just be a sales drone.

Mike...

I just called Dexter direct and spoke with an engineer. He confirmed what I thought , that I need to have the larger hubs for the 13" wheels. So, Off I get to go and get them changed out tomorrow. Fun stuff!! But, tleast then I can mount the axle and flip the trailer over and get started on building the box. THanks again for your input and advise. Hope to be on here more often. This seem to be a great group and who know, I might even get to a TD gathering next summer. (If I'm done by then?!?)

Have a great day!

Not that it matters for a teardrop unless you're hauling lead bricks, but the larger hubs and 13" rims let you use the stout 10"x2" drum brakes instead of the much wimpier 7"x1-1/4" ones.