Trailer Bearing Problem

[Jeffrey Asher]

I have a 2006 Tracker Pro Guide V-16 with a standard Tracker trailer. I was in the process of greasing my wheel bearings for a fishing trip tomorrow when the grease nipple just broke off. My Tracker literature has nothing about the wheel bearing system, but it is essentially a grease fitting on the front of the wheel bearing housing and with a rubber seal that fits over that opening. My questions is: can I still use the trailer for this one trip (about 90 miles one way)? Will the grease be retained in the bearing housing? What would happen when I launch the boat? Will the bearings get contaminated? Tomorrow is the only time my nephew can go fishing, and I hate to disappoint him. But I also don't want to be stranded on the road either.



You help/advice would be greatly appreciated

 

[Steve Rizza]

I would just buy a set of Bearing Buddies and install them. They just press in the end of the hub.( hammer and block of wood ) You can find them at Wal Mart or similar stores, cost about $15-$20 , and better than the stock setup.





Steve

 

[Jim B]

Jeff, you should have no problem if you broke the zerk fitting off. I wouldnt worry one bit.



When you get back from your trip jsut use an easy out for remove whats lest of the zerk fitting and install a new one.



The zerk does not hold the grease in or keep water out Thats the job of the bearing cap and the rear seal. the zerk just lets you add grease.



The type of hubs you have the grease goes thru the spindle and into the rear bearing and out the front. Thats why when you pump grease in them you will see it start to come out the front. This system is actually a very good system. I have the same thing on my 2000 882 trailer in and i have close to 100k miles on that trailer and never had a bearing problem.



Go to this link below for more information on how they work. You have the superlube type axles. You will need acrobat reader to see the file.
http://www.tiedown.com/pdf/c718.pdf

 

[William H. (Bill) Barham]

Listen to Jim. I have the same system and had never had a problem with it. You and your nephew have a good time.



Uncle Billy