Trailer Bearing Replacement.

[luckyinkentucky]

My trailer has Bearing Buddy IIs all the way around. Does this eliminate my need to replace the bearings? I know to keep the indicator out since that is a pressure regulator type thing, but do I ever have to change them? When I jack up each side I can freely spin the tires on the side jacked up. Shouldn't there be some resistance? I have an EZ Loader Custom tandem trailer.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Trailer Bearing Replacement.

Bearing Buddies do not eliminate the need to replace bearings but they sure do prolong the life of them. I periodically check mine but have not had to replace them. I do replace the seal if I remove the tire. No you should not feel any resistance when spinning a jacked up tire. If you did that would indicate a problem as your bearing would over heat.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Trailer Bearing Replacement.

What you shouldn't hear or feel when y0u spin the wheel is roughness or growling. That's a sign of a rough bearing that needs replacment. If you feel the hubs after a 50 mile trip and they feel more than just warm, you may also have a bearing problem.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Trailer Bearing Replacement.

Silvertip brings up a good point. Its good to get into the habit of just checking them for heat every once in a while.

 

[luckyinkentucky]

Re: Trailer Bearing Replacement.

I think I'm going to replace them just for my piece of mind. I know how to replace them on truck axles, but how to you do it on trailers? Also, I have to remove my Bearing Buddies to get to them. I think I just need to follow the instructions on their website to get those off. After that I am in the dark. Any suggestions on where to find a good 'How To' documentary on the net?

 

[srothfuss]

Re: Trailer Bearing Replacement.

It's about as easy as they come right here: Step by step along with a video of the how to courtesy of SailingTexas.com

To get your bearing buddies off, you'll need a block of 2x4 and a hammer. tonight I used a 3 pound hammer to get them started rocking back and fourth before switching to a rubber mallet to finally remove the bearing buddies.

 

[luckyinkentucky]

Re: Trailer Bearing Replacement.

Well, I took them off only to find that the old bearings were as new looking as my new ones were. In talking to the previous owner he said he never changed them, but just kept the Bearing Buddies full. Looks like they are doing their job since the bearings are 13 years old, and look like new.