Checking Trailer Wheel Bearings: Easy Guide
As a trailer owner with over 15 years of experience, I’ve learned the importance of regularly checking my trailer components including wheel bearings. Wheel bearings are essential for keeping your trailer wheels spinning smoothly and safely. Over time, wheel bearings can wear down or become damaged, which can lead to overheating, friction, and even wheel failure. So, it’s necessary to check them out regularly.
Basically, it’s about jacking up the trailer, removing the wheel, and inspecting bearings for damage. This is just the trailer. For the movie, keep reading till the end to get the whole process!
Steps to Check Trailer Wheel Bearings
To check your trailer wheel bearings, you will need the following tools and supplies – Jack, Jack stands, Wheel lug wrench, Socket wrench, Screwdriver, Grease gun, Bearing grease, and a clean rag.
When you’re prepared with these, start following the below-mentioned steps –
Source: traveltrailerpro
Step 1: Jack up the trailer. Use a jack to jack up the trailer so that the wheels are off the ground. Be sure to support the trailer with jack stands before removing the wheels.
Step 2: Remove the wheel. Use a wheel lug wrench to remove the wheel nuts and remove the wheel.
Step 3: Inspect the bearings. Inspect the inner and outer bearings for any signs of wear or damage. Look for cracks, pitting, or rust. If you see any signs of damage, the bearings should be replaced.
Step 4: Check the grease. Inspect the grease in the hub and on the bearings. If the grease is dirty or discolored, it should be replaced.
Step 5: Adjust the bearings. If the bearings are loose, they will need to be adjusted. To adjust the bearings, tighten the spindle nut until there is no play in the wheel. Be careful not to overtighten the spindle nut, as this can damage the bearings.
Step 6: Repack the bearings. Repack the bearings with fresh grease. Be sure to fill the hub with grease and coat the bearings thoroughly.
Step 7: Reinstall the wheel. Reinstall the wheel and tighten the wheel nuts. Torque the wheel nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Pro Tips While Checking
- Always check your trailer wheel bearings on a level surface.
- If you are not comfortable checking your trailer wheel bearings yourself, take your trailer to a qualified mechanic.
- Be sure to use the correct grease for your trailer wheel bearings.
- Do not overtighten the spindle nut, as this can damage the bearings.
Why Is It Important to Check Trailer Wheel Bearings?
Checking your trailer wheel bearings is important for several reasons. For example: Safety. Worn or damaged wheel bearings can cause the wheels to overheat and seize, which can lead to wheel failure and a serious accident. Then think of performance. Properly adjusted wheel bearings help to reduce friction and improve fuel economy. And finally, longevity. Regularly checking and maintaining your wheel bearings will help to extend their lifespan and save you money on repairs in the long run.
How Often Should I Check My Trailer Wheel Bearings?
I recommend checking your trailer wheel bearings every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, or more often if you tow your trailer in dusty or sandy conditions. You should also check your wheel bearings before and after any long road trips.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
How often should I repack my trailer wheel bearings?
I recommend repacking your trailer wheel bearings every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, or more often if you tow your trailer in dusty or sandy conditions.
What type of grease should I use for my trailer wheel bearings?
I recommend using high-quality lithium-based grease for your trailer wheel bearings.
What are the signs of bad trailer wheel bearings?
Those are excessive play in the wheel, grinding or squealing noises from the wheel, hot wheel hubs, grease leaking from the wheel hubs, etc.
Wrapping It Up
Congratulations on taking the first step toward ensuring the safety and longevity of your trailer! Checking your trailer wheel bearings is an essential part of trailer maintenance, and by following the steps in this article, you can easily do it yourself. I know that it can be intimidating to work on your own trailer but trust me, this is a task that anyone can do with a little bit of basic knowledge and tools. And the best part is, once you’ve done it a few times, it will become second nature. So don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and get dirty. Your trailer will thank you for it!
