I think the mechanic is trying to say that BB's give us a 'toy' to play
with in that the seal will wear with time, then excessive playing with the
grease gun and you have a problem. His bottom line was that BB's are not a
cure for proper maintenance ie repacking the bearings every 6 months or so.
Also, as he and I were 'debating' the 'issue', it became clear as to what
he feels the intent of BB's are for. As I said previously, I think he said
that, in his opinion, BB's were mainly intended for overanxcious
powerboaters , not blowboaters. The time it takes for us to set up allows
our bearings to cool down, thus eliminating the need for BB's on a
'properly maintained trailer'. He figures they are just another
uneccessary item we think we need at our local marine supply store.
I give him considerable credibility as he runs a trailer supply and repair
business, and has for a number of years, and I didn't see a single BB on
his store floor.
As for the SS sleeve, I don't know the brand or even what the product looks
like, but your description sounds correct. I do know I am thankful I may
not need to replace the axle, if the groove isn't to bad(?) I'll know
better this week.
Later