Trailer wheel bearings are an essential part of your trailer’s safety system. They allow the wheels to rotate smoothly and prevent them from seizing up. Replacing trailer wheel bearings is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the job is done correctly.
The first step is to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a jack, lug wrench, socket wrench, new wheel bearings, and grease. Once you have gathered your tools and materials, you can begin the process of replacing the wheel bearings. Start by jacking up the trailer and removing the lug nuts. Then, remove the wheel and tire. Next, use a socket wrench to remove the hub nut. Once the hub nut is removed, you can pull the hub off of the axle. The wheel bearings will be located inside the hub.
To remove the old wheel bearings, use a screwdriver or pry bar to gently pry them out of the hub. Be careful not to damage the hub or the bearings. Once the old bearings are removed, clean the hub and the axle. Then, apply a thin layer of grease to the new bearings and press them into the hub. Once the new bearings are in place, you can reassemble the hub and wheel. Finally, replace the lug nuts and torque them to the specified torque. Now that you have replaced the trailer wheel bearings, you can safely tow your trailer again.
Disassembling the Wheel Hub
To disassemble the wheel hub, follow these steps:
1. Remove the cotter pin and castle nut
Using a cotter pin puller, remove the cotter pin that secures the castle nut. Then, use a wrench to loosen and remove the castle nut.
2. Remove the outer bearing and seal
Pull the outer bearing and seal off the spindle.
3. Remove the inner bearing
This step can be tricky, as the inner bearing is often pressed onto the spindle. Here are a few methods you can use to remove it:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Using a bearing puller | Attach a bearing puller to the inner bearing and use it to pull the bearing off the spindle. |
| Using a slide hammer | Attach a slide hammer to the inner bearing and use it to knock the bearing off the spindle. |
| Using a chisel and hammer | Use a chisel and hammer to carefully tap the inner bearing around the circumference until it loosens and can be removed. |
Be careful not to damage the spindle or bearing surface when removing the inner bearing.
Repacking the Bearings with Grease
To repack the bearings with grease, follow these steps:
1.
Remove the old grease from the bearings and races using a degreaser or solvent. Be sure to clean all of the old grease off of the bearings, races, and seal surfaces.
2.
Apply a thin layer of high-temperature wheel bearing grease to the inside of the bearings and races. Be sure to coat all of the surfaces that will be in contact with each other.
3.
Place the bearings in the races and press them into place. Be sure to press the bearings in evenly so that they are seated properly.
4.
Apply a bead of grease around the outside of the bearings. This will help to keep the grease in place and prevent it from leaking out.
5.
Install the seal and the hub. Be sure to tighten the hub nut to the specified torque.
Here are some additional tips for repacking the bearings with grease:
| Tip | Reason |
|---|---|
| Use a high-temperature wheel bearing grease. | This type of grease is designed to withstand the high temperatures that are generated by trailer wheels. |
| Apply a thin layer of grease to the bearings and races. | Too much grease can cause drag and overheating. |
| Press the bearings into the races evenly. | This will help to ensure that the bearings are properly seated and will not come loose. |
| Apply a bead of grease around the outside of the bearings. | This will help to keep the grease in place and prevent it from leaking out. |
| Tighten the hub nut to the specified torque. | This will help to ensure that the hub is properly secured and will not come loose. |
Reassembling the Wheel Hub
7. Install the Bearing Races
Carefully align the bearing races with the corresponding surfaces on the spindle and in the hub. Gently tap them into place using a brass hammer or a drift tool. Ensure they are fully seated and flush with the surrounding surfaces.
Properly installing the bearing races is crucial for the smooth operation and longevity of the wheel bearings. If the races are not seated correctly, it can lead to premature bearing failure or damage to the hub.
Here’s a tip to make sure the races are installed correctly: Use a small amount of blue or red Loctite on the race’s outer surface before tapping it into place. This will help prevent the race from loosening or moving out of position over time.
8. Lubricate the Bearings
Before installing the bearings, apply a generous amount of high-quality bearing grease to both the inner and outer surfaces. Use a grease specifically designed for trailer wheel bearings and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the amount and type of grease.
Proper lubrication is essential for reducing friction and wear on the bearings. It also protects them from corrosion and moisture.
9. Install the Bearings and Seal
Carefully insert the bearings into the races, ensuring they are properly seated and facing the correct direction. Place the seal onto the spindle and carefully tap it into place until it is flush with the surface.
Inspect the seal to ensure it is properly installed and free of any tears or damage. A damaged seal can compromise the integrity of the bearing system and allow contaminants to enter.
Checking for Proper Operation
It’s crucial to ensure the trailer wheel bearings are functioning correctly before installation. Here’s how to check:
1. Inspect the Grease Seal
Examine the grease seal for any tears, cracks, or deformities. Replace the seal if there’s any damage.
2. Spin the Bearing by Hand
Hold the bearing assembly and spin it smoothly. It should rotate freely without any noticeable grinding or roughness.
3. Check for Play
Hold the inner race of the bearing and try to move it back and forth. There should be minimal or no lateral play.
4. Inspect the Race for Wear
Examine the race for any signs of wear, pitting, or scoring. If you notice any damage, replace the bearing.
5. Check for Grease Leakage
Inspect the bearing assembly and surrounding area for any signs of grease leakage. Replace the bearing if you notice any seepage.
6. Listen for Abnormal Noises
Spin the bearing assembly and listen for any unusual noises, such as grinding, humming, or clicking. Unusual noises may indicate a problem with the bearing.
7. Check the Temperature
After spinning the bearing for a few minutes, touch the outer race. It should be slightly warm to the touch, but not excessively hot.
8. Seal the Bearing
Once you’ve inspected and lubricated the bearing assembly, cover it with a new dust cap or seal.
9. Install the Bearing
Carefully insert the bearing assembly into the hub bore. Ensure it seats properly and is fully inserted.
How To Replace Trailer Wheel Bearings
Replacing trailer wheel bearings is a fairly simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these steps, you can ensure that your trailer is safe and ready to hit the road.
- Safety first. Park your trailer on a level surface and chock the wheels. Disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical accidents.
- Remove the wheel. Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that you will be replacing the bearings on. Once the lug nuts are loose, remove the wheel.
- Remove the hub. The hub is the part of the trailer that the wheel bolts onto. To remove the hub, you will need to remove the cotter pin and castle nut that hold the hub in place. Once the cotter pin and castle nut are removed, you can pull the hub off of the axle.
- Remove the old bearings. The old bearings will be located inside the hub. To remove them, you will need to use a bearing puller. Once the old bearings are removed, you can clean the hub and axle.
- Install the new bearings. The new bearings will need to be greased before they are installed. Once the bearings are greased, you can install them into the hub. Be sure to install the bearings in the correct orientation.
- Reinstall the hub. Once the new bearings are installed, you can reinstall the hub onto the axle. Be sure to tighten the castle nut to the proper torque.
- Reinstall the wheel. Once the hub is reinstalled, you can reinstall the wheel. Be sure to tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque.
- Reconnect the battery. Once the wheel is reinstalled, you can reconnect the battery.
People Also Ask About How To Replace Trailer Wheel Bearings
What are the symptoms of bad trailer wheel bearings?
There are a few symptoms that can indicate that your trailer wheel bearings are bad. These symptoms include:
- A grinding or squealing noise coming from the wheel
- Excessive play in the wheel
- The wheel is hot to the touch
- The trailer is difficult to tow
How often should I replace my trailer wheel bearings?
The frequency with which you should replace your trailer wheel bearings will depend on a number of factors, including the type of trailer, the weight of the trailer, and the conditions in which the trailer is used. A good rule of thumb is to replace the wheel bearings every 5,000 to 10,000 miles.
Can I replace trailer wheel bearings myself?
Yes, you can replace trailer wheel bearings yourself. However, it is important to note that this is a task that requires some mechanical skills. If you are not comfortable working on your trailer, it is best to have a professional replace the wheel bearings for you.
