Trailer axel washer

I'm changing out the bearings on my trailer and when pulling it apart there was no washer between the outer bearing and cotter nut. I went to pick one up and when I put it on the nut didn't fit on far enough to get the cotter pin through. I like the idea of a washer but are some set ups designed without them? Thanks!

 

Depends on the trailer & bearings.

The trailer I owned... the bearings needed to be 'set' with proper preload (more or less). It wasn't a 'washer' (per say) but a retaining ring that was fixed/mated to the axle itself. I had Dexter axles.

What type of axles do you have? Have you searched the manufacturers website for diagrams & information? You really need to research the axle you have. If you don't set things up properly, you're only gonna wear out your bearings & possible unsafe conditions.

 

Thanks! Mines the dexter axle. I also found elsewhere it goes without the washer