Trailer axle seals short life

[t700]

We have a 53' 2007 Utility reefer.
The trailer has super singles, which we like.
A new axle seal will only last about 6 or 7 month, so with the 4 axles we are replacing all the time.
The axles have the Stemco single nut system and when we replace a seal the Stemco procedure is followed.
Were using Lucas hub oil, but for the last 2 seals switched to synthetic 75-90 which have not leaked yet, but has been only a couple of months.

One guy we know packed bearings with grease and changed end caps and according to him has not had any problems.
I have heard that changing to grease can be hard on the spindles.

Suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

T700

[marek4792]

Do you know if the hubs are going in crooked during the initial install of the hub then outter bearing? Are you using the blue packaged seals or green packed seals (SKF) green packed seals are less prone to failure. How is your spindle and seal surface like is it pitted or groved? I prefer oil over grease just because you know right away something is wrong as grease you have almost no warning until it's practically on fire or a wheelset comes flying out...

[t700]

We initially used the National 370025A seal then switched to the Stemco Voyager seals.
We are very careful to insure the hub goes back on straight and clean the axle area where the
seal rides.
Not sure what blue packaged seals or green packed seals are.

Thanks T700

[marek4792]

Fixed the top post green packed are SKF brand.

[t700]

Thanks will try

T700

[Nilao]

9 times out of 10 leaking wheel seals are due to loose wheel bearings. If you just follow the re commended 200 ft lb back off 1 turn, 50 ft lb, back off 1/4 turn then it's most likely loose. Have you verified end play with a dial indicator?

[t700]

Thanks
The Stemco procedure calls for torque to 200 spin repeat 2 more times
Back off
Torque to 100 spin repeat 2 more times
Final step back off 1/4 turn

Not sure what the final torque is

Will try your method with the final torque at 50

Thanks
T700

[t700]

Also will check with dial indicator

[Nilao]

You need to check the endplay after setting it. It should be .001-.004. Dont get them too tight or they'll overheat and burn up.