fits year: 2012.

( Brand: Southwest Wheel ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: RVD-8K-865-580-GK ), ( Part Type: Bolt Trailer Hub Axle ), ( Ipn: Rvd-8k-865-580-g ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( UPC: 810067325479 )
The **Southwest Wheel RV-DV-8K-865-580-GK** is a high-performance, heavy-duty trailer hub and drum assembly meticulously engineered for recreational vehicles, fifth-wheel trailers, and commercial applications requiring robust durability and reliability. Designed with a **8-inch bolt circle** and a **6.5-inch wheel stud pattern**, this hub is specifically tailored to accommodate a wide range of aftermarket and OEM wheels, ensuring a secure and precise fit for both standard and custom wheel setups. The **5/8-inch studs** provide ample torque capacity, allowing for the safe towing of substantial loads while maintaining stability under varying road conditions. At the heart of this assembly lies a **grease-packed drum brake system**, offering consistent friction and heat dissipation, which is critical for long-distance travel and frequent braking scenarios. The **RVD-8K** designation underscores its capability to handle high-capacity applications, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a balance between performance and longevity. Constructed from premium materials, this hub features a **durable cast iron or steel housing**, reinforced with precision-machined components to withstand the rigors of heavy-duty towing, including sharp turns, uneven terrain, and prolonged exposure to moisture and debris. The **865-580** model variant ensures compatibility with a broad spectrum of axle configurations, including those found in popular RV and truck trailer setups, while the **GK** designation may indicate a specific grease or lubrication specification tailored for extended service life. Whether integrated into a new build or retrofitted into an existing trailer, this hub delivers uncompromising strength, smooth operation, and the confidence of knowing that even the most demanding towing scenarios are met with precision engineering and unwavering reliability.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Southwest Wheel RVD-8K-865-580-GK (8x6.5 Bolt Circle, 12 Grease Hub/Drum, 5/8 Studs Axle)**
#### **Pros:**1. **Heavy-Duty Construction** This axle is designed for high-capacity applications, making it suitable for large trailers, RVs, or commercial vehicles. The **8x6.5 bolt pattern** ensures strong wheel attachment, reducing the risk of wheel detachment under heavy loads.
2. **Grease Hub/Drum Design** The **12 grease hub** allows for better lubrication of moving parts, reducing friction and wear over time. This can extend the lifespan of the axle and improve overall durability, especially in demanding conditions.
3. **5/8" Studs for Wheel Mounting** The **5/8" studs** provide a secure and standardized mounting point for wheels, ensuring compatibility with most aftermarket wheels and tires. This makes it easier to upgrade or replace wheels without modification.
4. **High Load Capacity (8,000 lbs)** The **8,000-pound capacity** makes this axle ideal for heavy-duty trailers, including those pulling large boats, horse trailers, or oversized loads. It can handle significant weight without excessive stress.
5. **Wide Availability of Parts** As a well-known brand, Southwest Wheel offers extensive support, including replacement parts, bearings, seals, and wheels. This makes maintenance and repairs more accessible.
6. **Compatibility with Common Tires** The axle is designed to work with **standard commercial-grade tires**, which are often more durable and better suited for heavy loads than passenger tires.
7. **Durable Bearing System** The **grease-filled bearings** reduce the need for frequent maintenance, as they are designed to last longer with proper lubrication.
8. **Good for Off-Road and Rough Terrain** If your trailer operates on uneven or rough surfaces, this axle s robust construction can help prevent damage from impacts or vibrations.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Higher Initial Cost** Heavy-duty axles like this one are more expensive upfront compared to lighter-duty options. The price may be a significant investment, especially if you re on a tight budget.
2. **Weight Adds to Overall Trailer Weight** The axle itself adds weight to your trailer, which can slightly reduce fuel efficiency when towing, particularly if you re already operating near your vehicle s maximum towing capacity.
3. **Maintenance Requirements** While grease hubs reduce maintenance needs, they still require periodic **grease relubrication** (typically every 10,000 15,000 miles or as recommended). Neglecting this can lead to premature wear or failure.
4. **Potential for Overkill on Light-Duty Applications** If you re towing a **lightweight trailer** (e.g., a small camper or utility trailer under 5,000 lbs), this axle may be **more than necessary**, leading to unnecessary cost without significant benefit.
5. **Limited Customization** Unlike some aftermarket axles, this is a **standardized unit**, meaning you may have fewer options for modifications (e.g., different wheel offsets, custom spacers, or specialized mounting).
6. **Potential for Noise or Vibration** Some users report **axle wind noise** or slight vibrations at higher speeds, though this is often mitigated with proper wheel balancing and tire selection.
7. **Installation Complexity** If you re not experienced with trailer axles, installing this unit may require **professional help**, adding to labor costs. Misalignment or improper mounting can lead to premature wear.
8. **Potential for Overheating in Extreme Conditions** In **very hot climates** or with **heavy, sustained loads**, the axle may generate more heat, requiring extra attention to lubrication and cooling.
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### **Conclusion:**The **Southwest Wheel RVD-8K-865-580-GK** is a **high-quality, heavy-duty axle** best suited for **large, heavy-duty trailers** where durability and load capacity are critical. It excels in **long-term reliability, secure wheel mounting, and ease of maintenance** (thanks to the grease hub system). However, it is **not ideal for light-duty applications** where a cheaper, lighter axle would suffice.
If you **regularly tow heavy loads** (e.g., boats, horse trailers, or large RVs) and prioritize **longevity and strength**, this axle is a **strong recommendation**. However, if you re working with **lighter trailers** or need **more customization options**, you may want to consider a **lighter-duty axle** (e.g., a 6,000 7,000 lb capacity unit) to save on cost and weight.
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### **Final Recommendation:** **Buy this axle if:**You tow **heavy loads consistently** (8,000 lbs).
You need **long-term durability** and **minimal maintenance** (thanks to the grease hub).
You want **secure wheel mounting** (8x6.5 bolt pattern 5/8" studs).
You operate in **rough or off-road conditions** where axle strength matters.
**Avoid this axle if:**Your trailer is **under 6,000 lbs** and doesn t need this level of capacity.
You re on a **tight budget** and can find a similarly rated axle at a lower cost.
You need **custom wheel spacers or non-standard mounting** (this is a standard unit).
You **rarely tow** and want to minimize trailer weight for better fuel efficiency.
**Alternative Considerations:**- If you need **even higher capacity**, look at **10,000 lb axles** (e.g., **Bendix, Meritor, or Spicer**).
- If you want **lighter weight**, consider a **6,000 7,000 lb axle** (e.g., **Southwest Wheel RV-6K**).
- If **cost is a concern**, check for **used/refurbished axles** from reputable sellers.
For most **heavy-duty trailer applications**, this axle is a **solid, reliable choice** just ensure it matches your specific towing needs.
Drums are chemically cleaned and painted black in electrostatic booth. Manufactured to automotive standard in ISO/TS-16949 registered factory. ASTM test bar method used to monitor tensile strength. Trailer Axle Southwest Wheel 8-6.5 Bolt Circle 12 Grease Hub/Drum with 5/8 Studs for a 8,000 lbs.
Studs are 5/8 - 18 with REACH compliant clear chromed plated per ASTM B633 Type III Class SC3.