Bearings are installed to provide a rolling effect that allows a wheel to spin.  Lubricant in a wheel bearing reduces friction, minimizes heat, protects surfaces from corrosion and prevents metal-to-metal contact.  Packing the bearings with grease is an easy maintenance step that will help prevent unexpected repair bills.  To assure they remain in working condition, pack the bearings with grease at least one time annually.

Items you will need to pack the wheel bearings are wheel chocks, a jack, jack stands, large screwdriver, hammer, rags, a metal grease pan, solvent, a spray can of brake cleaner and red or blue grease.  Wheel bearings are held in place either with cotter pins or snap rings.  If cotter pins are installed you will also need needle nose pliers and new cotter pins.

Service the bearings one side of the trailer at a time.  Park the trailer on a flat level surface.  Position wheel chocks on the opposite side of the trailer.  Loosen the lug nuts and jack up the side of the trailer you intend to work on.  Place jack stands in the front and rear.

Prior to removing the wheel, spin the tire and listen for noise.  If the turning wheel emits a squeal or growling noise, it may be indication that the bearing needs replaced. Electric brake units can expect a slight drag from the electro-magnets.

Remove the wheel and pry off the dust cap using the screwdriver.  If the bearing is secured in place with a cotter pin, remove the cotter pin using needle nose pliers.  Dislodge the bearing nut and washer, keeping one hand on the bearing to prevent it from dropping onto the ground.  Once removed, place the bearing assembly on a clean rag.  If a seal is rusted, loosen the seal with light coating of lubricant.

Bearings must be returned to their original wheel.  If you are lubricating more than one bearing at a time, use precaution to return each bearing to the same wheel position.

Place the bearing assembly in a metal pan and remove grease with solvent.  Examine the bearing for signs of wear and replace any bearings that appear damaged.  Discoloration, corrosion, chipping, pitting and uneven wear patterns indicate that it is time to replace a bearing.

After the bearing is clean, spray the bearing with brake cleaner and allow it to dry.  Remove grease from the spindle and hub with a rag.  Apply new grease to the bearing, pushing the grease into the roller until the grease exits out the top.  Do not coat the inside of the hub with grease.  Tap the seal back onto the rear of the hub and install the bearing back onto the spindle.

While tightening the nut on the spindle, spin the hub a couple of times to confirm the bearing is properly seated.  Use caution to avoid over-tightening the nut on the spindle.  Tighten the nut according to the End Play specifications in the axle manufacturer’s trailer chart.  Insert a new cotter pin or snap ring.  Reattach the dust cap.  Reinstall the wheel and secure the lug nuts.

Keep record of bearing maintenance for future reference.