No one wants to be the guy stranded on the side of the road with a disabled trailer! Before you head out for that big job, be sure to do a full check of the wheel bearings. Here are some basic tips to help determine if you’re trailer bearings need further help.
How to check your Trailer Wheel Bearings:
With the bearings out of sight, it’s easy to neglect them. Remember a loose, worn or damaged wheel bearing is the most common of all brake malfunctions causing them not to grab. In order to ensure you don’t become another statistic, it’s important you check your bearings on a very regular basis.
Jack up the trailer and remember to secure it on an adequate capacity jack stand. (Helpful Article)
Loose Wheels – Are you’re wheel shifting from side to side? There should be a very slight amount of give with 1/8” inch or less. However, if they appear loose or spin with a wobble, the bearings must be serviced or replaced.
Loud Noises – Do you hear any squeaks, grinding of any kind or clicking from the wheels past 25 mph? You may have a faulty bearing or a grease job is needed right away.
Checking for Heat – Tow the trailer at 5-10 miles per hour for a short distance (1/10 – ¼ mile). Park the trailer and then place your hand on all of the wheel hubs. If it’s too warm to hold your hand in place, you may have a bearing in need of replacement or at the very least lubrication. It is also possible that the wheel doesn’t have enough play, therefore, is generating too much heat.
Check back with us next week with step by step directions on How to apply Grease to your Bearings. In the meantime, if you have questions or concerns please be sure to contact us through the link below or fill out the form submission to initiate your service request. Thank you!
The Snapper Trailers Safety Disclaimer can be viewed here
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