just to share .. my max 2 highboy has the chains and axle bearings exposed to the mud , etc. the axle bearings are 2'' mounted in the 4'' square cast iron housings . after 2 years i am needing to replace my first bearing after tons of mud and water exposure . i think the fact that i can easily wash them and the chains off after each muddy ride , and easy to grease and lube them both is the reason they have lasted so long . and much easier on my back ! johnboy va,