How to Repack Trailer Wheel Bearings [Start to Finish]

Summary

In this video, Tyson from Adventure Rig demonstrates the step-by-step process of repacking wheel bearings on an enclosed trailer. He covers safety precautions, including using a bottle jack and a jack stand, and walks through removing the wheel, cleaning the axle and bearings, and inspecting for any damage. Tyson provides guidance on how to repack the bearings with fresh grease, install a new seal, and properly reassemble the wheel components. He emphasizes the importance of proper torque and inspecting the wheel after driving to ensure everything is secure, making this an informative guide for trailer maintenance.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ensure trailer is chocked before working on the wheel to prevent movement.
• 🛠️ Use a bottle jack under the frame to lift the wheel off the ground, ensuring safety with a jack stand.
• 🔧 If using hand tools, loosen the lug nuts before raising the trailer, as the wheel may spin when lifted.
• 🧤 Wear rubber gloves to keep hands clean while handling grease during the repacking process.
• 🛑 Inspect the dust cover and grease inside the bearings to ensure maintenance is needed.
• 🔍 Inspect the brake drum and bearings for any damage, discoloration, or wear before continuing.
• 💡 A Cotter pin or clamp may secure the nut, which must be removed before spinning it off the axle.
• 🧼 Clean off all old grease from bearings and the axle before inspecting for damage or wear.
• 🛢️ Repack the wheel bearings with grease that can withstand high speeds and temperatures.
• 🔄 Install the bearings back into the hub after greasing and ensure the new grease seal is installed properly.
• 🛠️ Tighten the castle nut snugly but not too tight to allow for smooth spinning of the wheel, and check for any play.

Q & A

Why is it important to chock the trailer before starting the wheel bearing repacking process?

Chocking the trailer ensures that it doesn't move or shift while you're working on it, preventing any accidents where the wheel could fall off the axle or cause injury.

What should you do if you don’t have a powered impact wrench when removing the lug nuts?

If you don't have a powered impact wrench, you should loosen the lug nuts while the wheel is still on the ground. Once the wheel is lifted, the tire won't spin, making it easier to remove the nuts.

Why is it necessary to wear gloves when repacking wheel bearings?

Wearing gloves is important because it keeps your hands clean and protected from the grease, dirt, and potential contaminants that you’ll be handling during the process.

What should you do if you don’t see grease inside the wheel bearing when you remove the dust cover?

If no grease is visible, it indicates that the bearings have not been properly maintained. This means it's time to repack the wheel bearings with fresh grease, as the bearings are overdue for maintenance.

What is the purpose of the cotter pin or clamp in the bearing assembly?

The cotter pin or clamp prevents the castle nut from spinning off during operation, ensuring the wheel bearings stay securely in place while the trailer is moving.

How do you properly clean the wheel bearings before inspecting them?

To clean the wheel bearings, use brake cleaner to remove old grease and dirt. This will help you inspect the bearings for any pitting, discoloration, or damage that could indicate the need for replacement.

What should you look for when inspecting the wheel bearings and hub race?

You should check for any discoloration (such as a purple or bluish color) or pitting on the bearings and hub race, as these are signs of overheating or damage that may require replacement.

Why is it important to apply grease to both the bearings and the hub?

Applying grease to both the bearings and the hub ensures smooth operation and reduces friction. The bearings will perform better and last longer with proper lubrication, and the hub will help the bearings run efficiently.

What is the correct way to install the grease seal?

To install the grease seal, tap it in evenly using a board or tool that spans both sides of the seal. This ensures that the seal sits flush and doesn’t get damaged during installation.

How do you determine if the castle nut is tightened correctly?

After installing the castle nut, tighten it just enough to create slight resistance and then back it off a little. Spin the hub to make sure it rotates freely, and check for any play. If there’s too much play, tighten it slightly. If it’s too tight, loosen it until the pin hole lines up and the bearing spins smoothly.