Help with replacement of wheel bearings

[jedgell]

I am looking at replacing the bearings in my trailer in the near future. I've called around and looks like it will cost about $175 to have it done for me, or $50 worth of parts to do it myself. My question is, how hard is this to do? I'm comfortable working on the engine and drivetrain of the boat, but have never worked on the trailer. The trailer has the drum brakes, is this an issue? Are there any special tools I'll need to buy? How long does it take to do this? Is there a website out there that has detailed instructions with pictures to show how to do this? Thanks in advance for your help.

[skijones]

RE: Help with replacement of wheel bearings

Pretty easy to do, takes a couple hours, no special tools but you will need jack stands. DO NOT count on a jack to hold it up. Make sure you get the correct sized bearings and races. You should also replace the seals while you have it apart. Also a good time to check the brakes. When you replace the races in the hub, make sure they are seated all the way. You can use a punch if you are very carefull. If you miss and scratch the race, you will have to get a new one. When the race is seated, it will change the pitch of the sound the punch makes. Get good quality grease and pack the bearings with as much as they will take. When you reassemble, tighten the nut fairly tight while spinning the hub. Then back off about a 1/4 turn and put the cotter key in. Good idea to get new ones. After doing both sides, run the trailer for a couple miles and recheck the play, may have to readjust. Good luck.

[NCH2oSki]

RE: Help with replacement of wheel bearings

Make sure if you do it yourself that you pack your bearings with the same grease that you use to lubricate them with during the year. In other words dont use standard auto bearing grease then decide to switch to water proof maring grease.

I have always had my best luck with a real auto parts store for the seals, bearings amd races. Automegelomart will not know how to find what you need. Try a Napa or Carquest that may also sell parts to farmers. Your dealer may also have them.

Its a messy job, so have lots of paper towels ready before going into the house to get a drink!

[M3Fan]

RE: Help with replacement of wheel bearings

www.championtrailers.com has plenty of info for you. Try to get double-lip replacement seals if possible.