[A/S] Possible spindle damage

["Christopher45103" <blickcd@xxxxxxx>]

I was repacking the wheel bearings last weekend and noticed dark 
streaks on all four spindles, bottom halves, where the inner bearing 
rides.

Most of this dark stuff cleaned off with no visible wear on the 
spindle.  One of the four seems to have some slight wear at the outer 
bearing.  All bearings seem a little sloppy but are otherwise intact.

This is the second time I have done this job and I followed 
directions exactly for packing with the proper grease and torquing of 
the hub nut.  I did notice some discoloration last year as well, but 
did not notice the wear on one which could have been overlooked.  
When I say wear, if I put a micrometer on it I might be able to 
measure a few thousanths of an inch, still there is a visible ridge.

This trailer is a 1979.  Is any discoloration normal at this age?  I 
plan to replace all the bearings before it hits the road again.

What about the one worn spindle?  Am I looking at an expensive axle 
replacement or can the spindle be replaced by itself?

If any damage was done by me, I assume that I should have replaced 
the sloppy bearings last year.

Hoping to avoid expensive off-season repairs at Jackson Center, but 
please post any answers.

Christopher