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.

Benefit	Figure	Source
Reduced accident risk	25%	National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Extended trailer lifespan	3-5 years	Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA)
Savings on repair costs	$1,000-$5,000	RV Dealers Association (RVDA)

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

Remove the hub bearing: Use a hub socket and wrench to remove the hub bearing.

Remove the bearing seal: Pry the bearing seal off using a screwdriver.

Inspect the bearings: Check for any wear, rust, or damage. Replace if necessary.

Install new bearings: Pack the bearings with grease and insert them into the hub bearing race.

Install the bearing seal: Apply grease to the new bearing seal and install it onto the hub bearing.

Tighten the hub bearing: Use a torque wrench to tighten the hub bearing to the specified torque.

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.

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