Do I need washers on my bearings?

[Tollerowner]

I picked up a trailer that someone left out for the trash. The only thing it needed was new tires, but the wheels didn't turn very well.  A neighbor showed me how to regrease the bearings and they are fine now.  The only thing is that there is no washer between the nuts and the bearing.  He didn't think it mattered all that much, but suggested I get a pair for the next time I regrease them (which is probably never).

Does that sound reasonable?

[Krusen]

There should be a square slot on the axle.

There are special washers, with a tab which fits into that slot, preventing the washer from turning on the axle, and turning the nut, changing the tightness of the bearings.

If the nut is castle style, and has a cotter pin, it can work without a keyed washer, but there should still be a washer there.

Proper tightening the bearings is vital to safe operation, and that adjustment must stay the same.

Does it have a cap over the bearings?  If not, solvent clean the outside of the hub, find a metal or plastic cap that will fit, and tape it on with quality electrical tape, to keep dirt and water from the bearings

[Charles Brennan]

Tollerowner, This pic may help with your question:

You cannot view this attachment.
You can see where the washer has a tab, that fits in the spindle slot that Kruse'n described.

If you would like a more detailed description of trailer hub maintenance, I refer you to this link:
https://trailersailor.com/forum/index.php?topic=796.msg4864#msg4864

Hope this helps,
Charles Brennan