Trailer Bearings

[Reno G.]

Good morning all.



I'm heading to Lake Champlain in a couple of weeks and wanted to check my trailer bearings before making the 4 hour drive. I've only had the boat for 2 years and other than greasing the bearings every year I've done nothing else to them. It's a 2000 Trailstar trailer with the grease fitting for the bearings just behind the rubber hub seal. I haven't noticed that the hubs are getting hot, but I would really like to check the bearings before heading out. Has anyone even taken these bearings out? If so I would really like to know how to do it. I haven't taken a really good look at them, but I assume it's fairly easy. Just want to make sure I'm doing it right the first time.



Thanks,

Reno

 

[TOMMY RICH]

If they're four years old...I would pull the wheels off...check the bearings for scratches or brownish "hot spots" on the bearing rollers. Also check the bearing races for scratches or pits. Next if the bearings look good..replace the rear wheel seals. You can get them at about any parts store but, make sure you take your old ones with you and try not to destroy them getting them out. Usually you can take a screwdriver and pry them right out pretty easy.

Once you've cleaned and repacked your bearings...install the seals. The best way is to put the assembly on a flat bench and use a flat piece of steel or a 1-2-3 block and tap the seals in witha rubber mallet until flush . Your done for another year or so:lol:

 

[Jim B]

Reno, i would check the seals on the backside of the hubs. If you are slinging grease you will see it. Also check the end play by wiggleing on the wheel, there should be no movement. As long as the seal is good, no water in the grease and good end play you should not need to take them apart.



Check out the link i put below. I ment to have rich put this on the grab bag a year ago but forgot too. Thisshould help you understand the priocess a bit and decide if you want to tackle it or take it to a pro.


http://www.massbassbuddies.com/bearings/index.htm

 

[TOMMY RICH]

Don't check em'...REPLACE them

 

[Reno G.]

Thanks everyone.