Change your Trailer Wheel Bearings Now and Save Thousands in Future Repairs

Changing trailer wheel bearings is a crucial maintenance task that can prevent costly repairs and ensure the safety of your trailer. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you understand the importance, benefits, and step-by-step instructions for changing trailer wheel bearings.

Benefits of Changing Trailer Wheel Bearings

• Improved safety: Malfunctioning wheel bearings can lead to wheel separation, causing accidents and potential injuries.
• Extended trailer life: Regular wheel bearing maintenance prevents premature wear and tear, extending the lifespan of your trailer.
• Reduced repair costs: Identifying and replacing worn bearings early on can save you thousands in costly repairs later.

How to Change Trailer Wheel Bearings

Getting Started

• Gather necessary tools (wrench set, hub socket, bearing puller, torque wrench)
• Remove the tire and wheel
• Locate the hubcap and remove it

Step-by-Step Approach

1. Remove the hub bearing: Use a hub socket and wrench to remove the hub bearing.
2. Remove the bearing seal: Pry the bearing seal off using a screwdriver.
3. Inspect the bearings: Check for any wear, rust, or damage. Replace if necessary.
4. Install new bearings: Pack the bearings with grease and insert them into the hub bearing race.
5. Install the bearing seal: Apply grease to the new bearing seal and install it onto the hub bearing.
6. Tighten the hub bearing: Use a torque wrench to tighten the hub bearing to the specified torque.
7. Lubricate and reassemble: Grease the spindle, install the hubcap, and replace the tire and wheel.

Effective Strategies, Tips, and Tricks

• Use a torque wrench: Overtightening or undertightening the hub bearing can damage it.
• Lubricate regularly: Grease the bearings every time you change them to prevent premature wear.
• Inspect periodically: Check the wheel bearings for any signs of wear during regular maintenance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to pack the bearings: Failure to pack the bearings with grease can cause them to overheat and fail.
• Overtightening the hub bearing: Overtightening can damage the bearing race and result in premature bearing failure.
• Not replacing the bearing seal: A damaged bearing seal can allow water and contaminants to enter the bearing, leading to failure.

FAQs About Changing Trailer Wheel Bearings

1. How often should I change my trailer wheel bearings? - Every 10,000-12,000 miles or as per the manufacturer's recommendations.

2. Can I change trailer wheel bearings myself? - Yes, with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a DIY project.

3. How much does it cost to have trailer wheel bearings changed? - Typically between $150-$300 per wheel, depending on the labor rates.