Trailer sounds like chain is dragging but nott

[HoosierHacker89]

I have a fairly new to me trailer and it is making an odd noise at lower speeds. Like it is dragging a chain, but no chain is being dragged. Suggestions on what to check? Trailer is 2009 shore land r. Basic “T” style I’m sure this is not the proper term.

 

[briangcc]

Bearings / brakes.

Had a bearing go on an Escort trailer. Didn't know it at the time but at low speeds, the trailer shook hard enough the trailer jack would rattle. Died down at higher speeds - go figure.

This was way back in my younger/stupider days. Cost me an axle by the time I had the marina check it out - boat & trailer was basically new.

 

[airshot]

Jack up each side and spin the wheels in both directions as well as checking for play. Otherwise.....is something loose that chatters when going down the road ?

 

[cyclops222]

Speed dependent noise vibration should be wheel bearings getting ready to break completely.

 

[HoosierHacker89]

I jacked my trailer up and spun the wheels in both directions. They both spun freely and had no play in them. Plenty of grease in each dust cover. I’m thinking noise is not bearings. I will replace bearing very soon. I don’t have several pairs of gloves at the house to pull apart to replace. I’m going to take the back up safety chain I installed (to keep bow down if winch strap breaks) to see the slack in that is causing the noise. Thanks for the suggestions so far. Will update thread.

 

[mike_i]

Does the trailer have brakes? If so have you checked to see if they or hubs are getting warm?

 

[HoosierHacker89]

No brakes on trailer. It’s one of those little 2 wheel 2 hundred lbs ones. I will check hubs.