Bearings are one of the most common parts to be replaced on a trailer. They work hard, so its no wonder!

Bearings will need replacing or adjusting when there is audible noise when spinning the wheel, or when there is slop in the wheel on the stub axle. Many trailer owners and users like to replace their trailer bearings periodically to avoid down-time and failure.

Replacing bearings is a relatively simple process if you follow the steps below:

• Remove the wheel from the hub
• Remove the dust cap, cotter pin and castle nut. Slide the hub off the stub.
• Remove the marine seal from the back of the hub with a flat screwdriver.
• Using a flat screwdriver and hammer, tap the bearing cup / races out of the hub. Work them out in a circular motion. This will take some time.
• Clean the hubs and stubs, checking for any unusual wear especially on the bearing surfaces.
• Install new bearing cups. Tap them in gently then seat them firmly with a cone tool or hydraulic press.
• Fit parts to the stub axle as follows:

  1. retaining washer

  2. rubber seal - wipe a smear of grease around the lip

  3. pack the large inner bearing with lithium marine grease and put it into the hub

  4. knock the seal retaining ring into place behind the bearing

  5. hub – apply a generous amount of grease to the hub between the bearing cups

  6. slide hub onto the stub

  7. pack small outer bearing with lithium marine grease and put on the stub

  8. axle washer

  9. castle nut 

• Tighten the castle nut with a  wrench to approximately 10 ft. lbs. Turn wheel in both directions to be sure wheel turns freely.
• Back the castle nut off 1/6 – 1/4 turn to the nearest locking hole. Wheel should turn smoothly with no end play or wobble.
• Line up cotter pin with nearest locking hole and spread
• Install dust cap with a rubber mallet

Bearings can also be replaced by your local vehicle servicing agent.

Want a copy of these instructions to print? Simply hit the link below to download!