Abstract: A spindle and hub assembly for a vehicle wheel is constructed so that, in the event of a failure of the bearing arrangement rotatably supporting the hub on the spindle, separation of the hub from the spindle will not immediately occur but will be prevented for a period of time sufficient for the operator of the vehicle to safely continue to advance the vehicle to a location where corrective action may be taken. An annulus supported on the spindle is secured to the spindle by a nut separate from the annulus, and the annulus has an outside diameter large enough such that a shoulder located within the opening in the hub through which the spindle extends is capable of engaging the annulus in the absence of the bearing arrangement, thereby preventing the hub from separating from the spindle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for packing wheel bearings with grease. A frame is provided for supporting an axle assembly comprising an axle shaft with a wheel mounted on a wheel bearing at each end. A horizontally mounted ram and cylinder is mounted adjacent each wheel. Each ram has a greasing head at its distal end and each head has a nose portion adapted to pivot relative to a body portion. Each nose portion has an open-mouthed greasing chamber. Each ram is advanced toward each wheel so that each open-mouthed greasing chamber is in communication with a wheel bearing. Pressurized grease is delivered to a greasing chamber and, therefor, to a bearing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for packing wheel bearings with grease. A frame is provided for supporting an axle assembly comprising an axle shaft with a wheel mounted on a wheel bearing at each end. A horizontally mounted ram and cylinder is mounted adjacent each wheel. Each ram has a greasing head at its distal end and each head has a nose portion adapted to pivot relative to a body portion. Each nose portion has an open-mouthed greasing chamber. Each ram is advanced toward each wheel so that each open-mouthed greasing chamber is in communication with a wheel bearing. Pressurized grease is delivered to a greasing chamber and, therefor, to a bearing.