Ensuring the functionality of boat trailer wheel bearings is a crucial part of maintenance that should be more noticed due to their consistent reliability. Yet, regular care is necessary. This guide is derived from the expertise of professionals, aiming to provide you with all the information you need to perform this task yourself. Nearly a quarter of all roadside breakdown calls about trailers are related to bearing failure.
1. Elevate the Trailer and Inspect the Wheel
Raise the trailer tire on one side until it spins freely, and secure it with a jack stand beneath the frame. Check the other trailer wheel for safety. Shake the tire vertically and horizontally to check for bearing issues. Spinning the tire and listening can reveal problems, but be cautious as it may be confused with brake pad or shoe noises. Regular inspection can save you the trouble of replacing the trailer spindle later.
2. Clean and Check the Assembly
Remove the dust cover or Bearing Buddy and check for any water or new grease in the bearing assembly. Thoroughly wipe away all grease to ensure no contamination.
3. Remove Key Components
Carefully remove the cotter pin, castle washer, axle nut, and spindle/axle washer and set them aside. Shake the tire to get the outer bearing off and wipe away bearing grease. Look for any signs of wear, including discoloration and scoring. Any evidence of these might indicate a need for replacing the trailer spindle, not just repacking the bearings.
4. Inspect the Inner Area
Take off the grease seal and inspect the inner hub. If there’s proof of inner seal failure, use channel lock pliers or a seal puller to remove the seal. Always replace the inner seal when removed.
5. Examine the Bearing Race
Both the inner and outer bearings are seated in a race. Remove all remaining grease and inspect for any wear. If everything looks good, you can proceed with repacking. If not, you need to replace everything, including considering replacing trailer spindle if it shows signs of wear.
6. Replace Races if Necessary
Use a round punch to remove races from the hub, moving in a circular motion. Wear eye protection during this process. Tap the new race in with a soft hammer, ensuring it’s flush with the hub.
7. Grease and Pack the Bearings
Generously grease the inner hub, then use a bearing packer to pack the inner bearing with grease. Repeat this process for the outer bearing later.
8. Install the New Seal
Install the new double-lipped grease seal, offering better defense against water intrusion. A board across the seal can protect it during hammering.
9. Assemble the Outer Area
Turn the wheel over, grease the race, and add the outer bearing. Carefully lift the wheel onto the spindle without damaging the grease seal with the spindle’s edge.
10. Secure the Assembly
Add the spindle washer and axle nut/castle nut, tightening to the proper position. Pay close attention to the tightness to avoid potential damage or wobbling.
11. Insert a New Cotter Pin
Lock a new cotter pin in place by turning both ends in the same direction.
12. Finalize the Assembly
Add the Bearing Buddy or dust cap and spin the wheel. If done correctly, you’ll hear the satisfying sound of silence.
Recognizing Signs of Bearing Wear
- Hot hub during refueling stops.
- Grease on the boat hull or trailer frame near the wheel.
- Obvious noise when spinning the wheel.
- Sudden loss of the usually reliable dust cover.
Tip
Avoid using gasoline for cleaning bearings and races. Paper towels and rags suffice.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Jack and stand
- Large flat screwdriver
- Needle–nose pliers
- Lug wrench
- Channel locks or seal puller
- Hammer
- Soft hammer
- Round punch or wooden dowel
- Goggles
- Gloves
- Boat trailer bearing kit with proper size bearings
- Bearing grease
Time and Cost
Expect to spend around one hour for each wheel, costing approximately $30–$40 for a complete set of bearings and seals.
Conclusion
Replacing trailer spindle or repacking wheel bearings is an essential but often overlooked aspect of trailer maintenance. By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth and safe journey. Regular care and vigilance in looking for signs of wear can save you from unexpected breakdowns and the cost of completely replacing trailer spindle. This maintenance might be difficult but vital for every trailer owner.