How To Replace Trailer Wheel Bearings
Overview
Monitoring trailer bearings is crucial to maintaining a safe functioning trailer. Noisy wheel bearings indicate that it is time to change them, and left alone, could seize and cause serious damage.
Items
Materials
- New Split Pin
- New Bearing Seal
- New Dust Cover or Bearing Protector
- New Bearings
- Kerosene or Solvent
- Container to Wash Parts
- Sandpaper
Tools
- Basic Mechanical Tools
- Hammer
- Punch
- File
Steps
Remove Hub Assembly
Remove the dust cap, cotter pin, adjusting nut and washers.
Then pull the hub towards you - taking care not to let the outer bearing fall out. The inner bearing and seal with also come out with the hub.
Old Bearings
With the hub on a bench, remove the outer bearing by simply lifting it out.
Remove all of the old grease from the hub assembly and spindle, cleaning with kerosene or solvent.
Remove the inner bearing and seal using a hammer and punch.
Inspect Spindle
Have a close look at the spindle, checking for scoring, damaged thread or other damage.
Apply a light coating of grease on the spindle to make installation easier and assist with cooling.
Inspect Hub
Inspect the hub bore and cup backing shoulder for nicks and burrs. Remove any if found
New Bearings
Pack the bearings the grease once removed from the packaging. To hand-pack bearings, force grease under the cage between the rollers - starting from the large side until it shows on the smaller side.
Alternatively you can use the ToolPRO Portable Bearing Packer
Fill the hub with grease to the inside diameter of the outer bearing races.
Installing Bearings Into Hub
Install the inner bearing and seal into the hub. Make sure the seal is pointed the correct way.
Then, install the outer bearing.
Reinstalling Hub
Slide the hub onto the spindle taking care not to damage the seal against the end of the spindle.
Adjusting Bearing
Apply preload to the bearing before final adjustment by tightening up the adjusting nut, and then backing off a couple of times.
Use a 12" wrench for final adjustment.
When the hub binds slightly, you'll know that all parts are properly seated. Back off the nut a 1/4 of a turn. Then lock in place with a new cotter pin.
Installing Cup
Work around the outer edge of the cup in a cris-cross motion with a hammer. Continue until it is solidly seated against the hub shoulder.
Re-install Wheel & Test
Reinstall wheel and give the trailer a test tow
*Important information* - Click here to read more about our How-To terms and conditions.