The Ultimate Guide to Changing a Wheel Bearing on a Trailer

Changing a wheel bearing on a trailer might not sound like a major inconvenience, but in reality it can cause major issues. Wheel bearings are essential to the safety and functionality of a trailer, and faulty wheel bearings can lead to serious accidents and costly repairs. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), wheel bearing failure is the cause of over 20% of all trailer accidents. Therefore, it is critical to keep your trailer's wheel bearings in good condition and to know how to replace them if necessary.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to change a wheel bearing on a trailer, as well as tips, tricks, and important safety precautions to keep in mind.

Materials You Will Need:

• New wheel bearing
• Grease gun
• Grease
• Socket wrench
• Lug wrench
• Jack
• Jack stands
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Rags

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Safety First

Before you begin any work on your trailer, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions:

• Park your trailer on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Chock the wheels to prevent the trailer from rolling.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris and grease.

2. Remove the Wheel

• Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that needs to be replaced.
• Do not remove them completely at this stage.
• Position the jack beneath the axle of the trailer and raise the trailer until the wheel is approximately 6 inches off the ground.
• Place a jack stand under the axle for added support.
• Remove the lug nuts completely and pull the wheel straight off the axle.

3. Remove the Hub

• Locate the hub cap on the back of the wheel hub and remove it.
• Use the socket wrench to remove the bolts that secure the hub to the axle.
• Carefully pull the hub straight off the axle.

4. Remove the Old Wheel Bearing

• The old wheel bearing will be located inside the hub. Use a rag to remove any grease or debris from the hub and bearing.
• Insert a screwdriver or pry bar into the space between the bearing and the hub and gently pry the bearing out.

5. Install the New Wheel Bearing

• Apply a generous amount of grease to the new wheel bearing.
• Carefully insert the new wheel bearing into the hub.
• Use a hammer to gently tap the bearing into place.

6. Reinstall the Hub

• Apply a small amount of grease to the axle shaft.
• Slide the hub back onto the axle and secure it with the bolts.
• Tighten the bolts using the socket wrench.

7. Reinstall the Wheel

• Lift the wheel onto the axle and align it with the hub.
• Thread the lug nuts onto the bolts and tighten them using the lug wrench.
• Lower the trailer back to the ground and remove the jack stand.

8. Torque the Lug Nuts

• Use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.
• Refer to your trailer's owner's manual for the correct torque specifications.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use a grease gun to apply grease to the new wheel bearing. This will help to extend the life of the bearing and prevent it from overheating.
• If you do not have a torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts as much as possible by hand. However, be careful not to overtighten them.
• Check the wheel bearings regularly for signs of wear or damage. If you notice any unusual noises or vibrations while driving, have the bearings inspected by a mechanic.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Do not attempt to change a wheel bearing on a trailer without the proper tools and safety equipment.
• Do not use a hammer to remove the hub from the axle. This can damage the axle and the hub.
• Do not overtighten the lug nuts. This can strip the threads on the bolts.

FAQs:

How often should I change my trailer's wheel bearings?

The frequency with which you need to change your trailer's wheel bearings will depend on a number of factors, including the type of trailer, the amount of use it gets, and the conditions in which it is used. However, as a general rule of thumb, it is a good idea to have the wheel bearings inspected every 10,000 miles and replaced every 20,000 miles.

How do I know if my trailer's wheel bearings need to be replaced?

There are a few signs that indicate that your trailer's wheel bearings may need to be replaced, including:

• Unusual noises coming from the wheels while driving.
• Vibrations in the trailer while driving.
• Excessive play in the wheels.
• Grease leaking from the wheel hubs.

Can I change my trailer's wheel bearings myself?

Yes, it is possible to change your trailer's wheel bearings yourself with the right tools and safety equipment. However, if you are not comfortable working on your trailer, it is best to have the job done by a qualified mechanic.

Stories from the Field:

Story 1:

A man was driving his trailer down the highway when he heard a loud noise coming from the wheels. He pulled over to the side of the road and discovered that one of the wheel bearings had failed. The wheel had come off the axle and was rolling down the road. The man was lucky to escape without injury.

Lesson learned: It is important to have your trailer's wheel bearings inspected regularly and replaced as needed.

Story 2:

A woman was driving her trailer to a campground when she felt a vibration in the trailer. She stopped to check the wheels and discovered that one of the lug nuts was loose. She tightened the lug nut and continued on her way. However, a few miles later, the lug nut came loose again and the wheel fell off the trailer. The woman was able to control the trailer and bring it to a stop, but she was shaken up by the experience.

Lesson learned: It is important to always torque the lug nuts to the specified torque.

Story 3:

A man was driving his trailer to a job site when he noticed that one of the wheels was wobbling. He stopped to check the wheel and discovered that the wheel bearing was completely worn out. The wheel was about to fall off the axle. The man was able to replace the wheel bearing himself and continue on his way, but he was grateful that he had stopped to check the wheel when he did.

Lesson learned: It is important to check your trailer's wheels regularly for signs of wear or damage.

Conclusion:

Changing a wheel bearing on a trailer is a relatively simple task that can be completed with the right tools and safety equipment. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save yourself money and ensure that your trailer is safe to operate.