A Comprehensive Guide to Changing a Trailer Wheel Bearing

Trailer wheel bearings are critical components that ensure smooth and safe towing. However, like any mechanical part, they can wear out over time and require replacement. This article provides a comprehensive guide to changing a trailer wheel bearing, including everything you need to know from tools and materials to step-by-step instructions.

Why Change a Trailer Wheel Bearing?

Trailer wheel bearings play a crucial role in supporting the weight of the trailer and reducing friction between the axle and the wheel. When a wheel bearing fails, it can lead to excessive heat, rapid tire wear, and even catastrophic wheel separation. Therefore, it's essential to inspect and replace wheel bearings regularly to prevent these dangerous situations.

Signs of a Bad Wheel Bearing:

• Grinding or humming noises from the wheel
• Excessive play or wobble in the wheel
• Increased tire wear on one side of the tire
• Trailer swaying or vibration while towing

Tools and Materials

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:

• Socket wrench set
• Lug wrench
• Jack and jack stands
• Wheel bearing puller
• Wheel bearing packer
• New wheel bearings (inner and outer)
• New grease seal
• High-temperature wheel bearing grease
• Solvent or cleaner
• Rags

Safety Precautions

• Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working on trailers.
• Chock the opposite wheel to prevent the trailer from rolling.
• Use proper jacking procedures and never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
• Allow ample time for the wheel bearing and brakes to cool before touching.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Remove the Wheel

• Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel.
• Carefully lift the trailer using the jack and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

2. Remove the Brake Drum

• Locate the brake drum cover and remove it.
• Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the brake drum in place.
• Carefully pull the brake drum off the axle.

3. Remove the Old Wheel Bearings

• Inner Bearing: Use a wheel bearing puller to carefully remove the inner wheel bearing from the axle.
• Outer Bearing: Insert a screwdriver or pry bar behind the outer bearing and carefully pry it off the hub.

4. Clean the Surfaces

• Thoroughly clean the axle, hub, and brake drum using a solvent or cleaner.
• Wipe away any old grease or debris.

5. Install the New Wheel Bearings

• Inner Bearing: Pack the new inner bearing with high-temperature wheel bearing grease using a wheel bearing packer. Apply a thin layer of grease on the axle as well.
• Outer Bearing: Place the new outer bearing on the hub and apply a bead of grease around the outer edge.

6. Reinstall the Brake Drum

• Carefully place the brake drum back onto the axle.
• Install the bolts and tighten them securely.
• Reinstall the brake drum cover.

7. Reinstall the Wheel

• Place the wheel on the axle and tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower the trailer and remove the jack stands.
• Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.

8. Check and Lubricate

• Spin the wheel to check for any binding or excessive play.
• Add additional grease if necessary.
• Reinstall the hubcap or wheel cover.

Tips and Tricks

• Inspect wheel bearings regularly, especially if you tow frequently or on rough terrain.
• Always replace bearings in pairs, even if only one shows signs of wear.
• Use a high-quality wheel bearing grease specifically designed for trailers.
• Keep a spare set of wheel bearings handy for emergencies.
• If you're not comfortable changing wheel bearings yourself, consult a qualified mechanic.

Humorous Stories

Story 1: One day, a man was towing his boat to the lake when he heard a loud grinding noise coming from the trailer. He pulled over to inspect and realized that one of the wheel bearings had seized up. The man looked around for something to use as a pry bar and spotted a nearby fence post. He grabbed the post and used it to pry the bearing off the axle. As he did so, the fence post snapped in half and the bearing went flying into the woods.

Lesson Learned: Always carry a proper wheel bearing puller when towing.

Story 2: A woman was driving her camper when she noticed that the trailer was swaying violently. She pulled over and checked the tires, but everything seemed fine. She looked under the trailer and noticed that one of the wheel bearings was completely missing. She called a mechanic, who arrived and replaced the missing bearing. The mechanic asked the woman if she had noticed any strange noises, and she said that she had heard a loud bang a few miles back.

Lesson Learned: Pay attention to unusual noises while towing.

Pros and Cons

Pros of Changing Trailer Wheel Bearings:

• Improves safety by preventing catastrophic wheel separation
• Reduces excessive tire wear
• Eliminates grinding or humming noises
• Easy to do with the right tools and knowledge

Cons of Changing Trailer Wheel Bearings:

• Can be time-consuming
• Requires some mechanical skills
• Can be dirty and greasy
• May require specialized tools

FAQs

1. How often should I change trailer wheel bearings?
   Answer: It depends on the frequency and conditions of towing. However, most manufacturers recommend replacing wheel bearings every 10,000-15,000 miles.

2. Can I replace just one wheel bearing if only one is damaged?
   Answer: No, it's always recommended to replace bearings in pairs, even if only one is showing signs of wear.

3. What type of grease should I use for trailer wheel bearings?
   Answer: Always use a high-temperature wheel bearing grease specifically designed for trailers.

4. How do I know if I'm over-greasing a wheel bearing?
   Answer: If you see excess grease leaking out from the hub or brake drum, it's a sign of over-greasing.

5. Can I tow with a damaged wheel bearing?
   Answer: No, it's extremely dangerous to tow with a damaged wheel bearing.

6. What are the signs of a loose wheel bearing?
   Answer: Excessive play or wobble in the wheel and grinding or humming noises.

7. Can I repack wheel bearings without replacing them?
   Answer: Yes, but only if the bearings are in good condition. However, it's still recommended to replace bearings periodically.

8. How much does it cost to have trailer wheel bearings replaced?
   Answer: The cost depends on the type of trailer, the location, and the mechanic. Typically, it ranges from $200 to $400 per axle.

Call to Action

Regularly inspect and replace trailer wheel bearings to ensure safe and efficient towing. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can keep your trailer in top condition and avoid costly breakdowns. Remember, a well-maintained trailer is a safe trailer.