My friend recently had the whole wheel come off of her trailer while traveling down the road and the tire just followed along! Her trailer is older, 1988, and the repair man told her that occasionally the hubs, etc, should be switched out. I have never heard of that needing to be done before, please educated me on this topic. Not anxious to experience that.
Posted 2016-10-23 10:39 AM (#168715 - in reply to #168708) Subject: RE: Trailer Maintenance
Regular
Posts: 87 Location: Williamsburg VA
The wheel and hub rotate on the axle. The friction is reduced by two bearings (inner and outer) that are lubricated by grease. If the bearings are not properly greased, the friction will increase and the bearings will fail. The bearing failure will result in the hub being loose on the axle and possibly the wheel leaving the vehicle. The bearings should be cleaned, inspected and repacked or replaced. Some suggest that this is done annually others suggest longer periods. I would consult my mechanic. A second problem can occur if the axle nut isn't properly secured with the retaining nut and cotter pin or other device when the bearings are inspected or serviced. The nut can loosen and evenuatly fall off the axle, resulting the loss of the hub and wheel. Each time you use your trailer you should check your wheels for loseness and when traveling check the axle hubs for excessive heat when stopping.
Posted 2016-10-24 9:06 AM (#168720 - in reply to #168708) Subject: RE: Trailer Maintenance
Expert
Posts: 3853 Location: Vermont
Lazy M - 2016-10-22 11:57 PM Hi
My friend recently had the whole wheel come off of her trailer while traveling down the road and the tire just followed along! Her trailer is older, 1988, and the repair man told her that occasionally the hubs, etc,
should be switched out. I have never heard of that needing to be done before, please educated me on this topic. Not anxious to experience that.
Thanks
Joan
2003 4 Star
So when did your friend last have the trailer's wheel bearings greased? And brake assemblies checked...If ever...
Posted 2016-10-26 11:11 PM (#168755 - in reply to #168708) Subject: RE: Trailer Maintenance
Expert
Posts: 2953 Location: North Carolina
Be aware ... to properly grease and inspect most wheel's bearing & brake, the rear seal is usually removed & replaced. If the shop doesn't charge you for this seal, be suspicious of the quality of their work.
Trailer Maintenance
