By This past weekend, my friends and I were all set to take the boat out for a day on the river. We loaded everything up, hitched the trailer, and got halfway down the driveway when we realized something was off—the trailer was making strange squeaky noises and wobbling pretty bad. After a quick inspection, we discovered the wheel bearing was loose. That put a hold on our river plans, but luckily, we were able to swing by the local auto parts store, grab the necessary parts, and fix it ourselves.
Wheel bearings are crucial to keeping your trailer rolling smoothly. When they go bad, ignoring the problem can lead to major damage or even a dangerous breakdown on the road. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, here’s how to repair or replace bad wheel bearings and get your trailer back in action.
Signs of a Bad Wheel Bearing
Before diving into the fix, it’s important to recognize when your wheel bearings are going bad. Some signs to look out for include:
- Grinding or humming noises coming from the wheel area.
- Excessive play or wobbling when you shake the wheel by hand.
- Heat from the hub after towing, which could indicate friction.
- Rough rotation when spinning the wheel.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Bearing grease or grease packer
- Replacement bearings
- New grease seals
- Flathead screwdriver or pry bar
- Pliers
- Wrenches for spindle nut
- Rubber mallet (optional)
- Rags or paper towels
- Wheel chocks
Step 1: Prepare the Trailer
Before you begin, park your trailer on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Make sure the trailer is stable by placing wheel chocks on the opposite side of the wheel you’ll be working on.
Step 2: Jack Up the Trailer
Use a jack to lift the trailer off the ground. Position jack stands under the trailer frame to support it securely while you work. Make sure the wheel with the bad bearing is free to spin once it’s lifted.
Step 3: Remove the Wheel
Using a lug wrench, loosen and remove the lug nuts, then take the wheel off the trailer. Set the lug nuts aside, as you’ll need them later when reinstalling the wheel.
Step 4: Remove the Dust Cap
The next step is to remove the dust cap, which protects the wheel hub and bearings. Use a flathead screwdriver or pry bar to carefully pop off the dust cap. Be gentle to avoid damaging it, as you’ll need to put it back on later.
Step 5: Remove the Cotter Pin and Spindle Nut
Once the dust cap is removed, you’ll see a cotter pin holding the spindle nut in place. Use pliers to straighten the cotter pin and pull it out. Afterward, you can unscrew the spindle nut using a wrench. Remove any washers or other components behind the spindle nut and set them aside.
Step 6: Remove the Hub
With the spindle nut off, you can now slide the entire hub assembly off the axle. Be cautious, as the bearings and grease seal will come off with it. You’ll find the outer bearing and the inner bearing inside the hub.
Step 7: Inspect and Clean the Bearings
Before proceeding with the replacement, take a moment to inspect the bearings. Look for signs of wear, pitting, or scoring. If the bearings are in bad shape, replace them with new ones. Clean the old bearings (if you’re reusing them) and the hub thoroughly using a solvent or brake cleaner. Also, clean the spindle to remove any old grease.
Step 8: Pack the Wheel Bearing with Grease
Whether you’re using new or reused bearings, they must be packed with fresh grease. You can either use a bearing packer or do it by hand. If doing it manually, place a dollop of grease in the palm of your hand and press the bearing into it, ensuring grease gets inside the roller section.
Step 9: Install the New Bearings and Grease Seal
Place the freshly packed inner bearing into the hub first, followed by the new grease seal. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the seal into place if necessary. Next, slide the hub back onto the spindle and insert the outer bearing into the hub.
Step 10: Reinstall the Spindle Nut and Cotter Pin
Reinstall the washers and spindle nut, tightening the nut to the manufacturer’s recommended torque. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can cause premature bearing failure. Insert a new cotter pin through the hole in the spindle and bend the ends to secure it in place.
Step 11: Reinstall the Dust Cap and Wheel
Once the spindle nut is secure, gently tap the dust cap back onto the hub. Then, put the wheel back onto the hub and secure it with the lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
Step 12: Lower the Trailer and Check for Proper Function
With everything reinstalled, lower the trailer back onto the ground and remove the jack stands. Before hitting the road, spin the wheel by hand to make sure it turns smoothly, and check for any signs of wobbling or excessive play.
Final Thoughts
Fixing a bad wheel bearing on your trailer is a task that can be accomplished with the right tools and a bit of patience. Regular maintenance, such as checking and greasing your bearings, can prevent them from going bad in the first place, ensuring a smooth and safe towing experience. If you’re ever unsure about the repair, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional.
