Axle nut cap won't go on

[Frank_Jaeger]

I'm installing my Drop Engineering 5-lug hubs, and I can't get the axle cap back on :facepalm:. It's not bent or anything, I think the inside diameter of the hub is too small for it to fit. Does this sound right, or am I a retard?

When I hit it, one side will go into the hub, and the opposing side will push out. I checked to make sure the cotter pin isn't obstructing, and it isn't. I can't get this fucking thing on. If I hit it harder with the mallet, it just pops itself off.

EDIT: Sorry guys, didn't even check what subforum I was in.

[PureRush]

You don't even need it lol

[Frank_Jaeger]

Are you sure? As it was, there was very minimal corrosion underneath the cap, even after 20 years. And no dirt.

[beems240sx]

post pics to show what you mean. just the cover for the nut? yeah done need that

[e1_griego]

Yes you absolutely need it.

The front wheel bearings are not sealed -- without the dust cap you will experience premature wear and failure of the wheel bearing.

[Sileighty_85]

Yes you absolutely need it.

The front wheel bearings are not sealed -- without the dust cap you will experience premature wear and failure of the wheel bearing.

Youp^

PO removed mine before I bought it and the WB were destroyed.

you need to tap it in evenly. If you have a Micrometer check both diameters.

[Frank_Jaeger]

Youp^

PO removed mine before I bought it and the WB were destroyed.

you need to tap it in evenly. If you have a Micrometer check both diameters.
I've tried. it always ends up uneven. I don't have a micrometer, I'll just sand down the lip of the cap until it fits. Thanks guys.

[dawagarage]

are you hitting it with a hard or soft mallet?
a hard (metal) mallet poses the risk of damaging/disfiguring the cap

[Frank_Jaeger]

Soft rubber mallet. I tried the caps on my old hubs and they fit perfect, but not on my new hubs. I'm not hitting them hard enough to disfigure them anyway.

What else can I do besides sand the lip?

[Mikester]

Do a search for wheel bearing dust caps

https://www.google.com/#q=wheel+bearing+dust+cap&hl=en&tbm=shop&ei=hzGJUKvNE4m89QTnwoHICg&start=10&sa=N&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_cp.r_qf.&fp=5f6ee8d86105ab58&bpcl=35466521&biw=1280&bih=808

Find one with an OD that matches the measurement you need for the DE hubs. Not saying it can't be done, but sanding them thinner than they already are to fit may not be the best course of action.

[tapdeznutz]

use some light grease on the cap to help it tap in. Get it tap, lol never mind.