The best place to buy trailer wheel bearings depends on your budget, desired quality, and urgency. From nationwide auto parts chains to specialized online retailers, understanding your options ensures you acquire the correct bearings for safe and reliable towing.
Understanding Your Trailer Wheel Bearing Needs
Before diving into where to buy, it’s crucial to understand what you need. Trailer wheel bearings are critical components that allow your trailer’s wheels to spin smoothly and safely. Choosing the wrong bearing can lead to premature failure, overheating, and even wheel separation – a potentially catastrophic situation.
Identifying the Correct Bearing Type and Size
- Identify Your Axle: Knowing your axle manufacturer and model is paramount. This information is usually stamped on the axle itself.
- Consult Your Trailer Manual: The trailer’s manual should list the correct bearing specifications.
- Measure the Existing Bearing: If the old bearing is available, carefully measure its inner diameter (ID), outer diameter (OD), and width.
- Use an Online Bearing Cross-Reference Tool: Many websites offer tools that allow you to input dimensions or manufacturer part numbers to find compatible replacements.
Considering Bearing Quality and Materials
- Bearing Material: Common materials include high-carbon steel and stainless steel. Stainless steel bearings offer superior corrosion resistance, particularly important for boat trailers.
- Bearing Construction: Look for tapered roller bearings designed specifically for trailer applications. These bearings are better suited to handle the combined radial and thrust loads encountered during towing.
- Seals and Grease: Choosing quality seals and appropriate high-temperature, waterproof bearing grease is equally crucial to bearing longevity. Consider buying a complete kit that includes both.
Top Retailers for Trailer Wheel Bearings
With your needs clearly defined, here’s a breakdown of where you can purchase trailer wheel bearings:
National Auto Parts Chains
- Pros: Convenience, wide availability, knowledgeable staff (ideally!), brick-and-mortar presence for returns. Chains like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, O’Reilly Auto Parts, and NAPA Auto Parts often carry a decent selection of trailer wheel bearings, especially for common axle sizes. These are great if you need a bearing quickly.
- Cons: Potentially higher prices compared to online retailers, variable staff knowledge depending on location.
- Tip: Utilize their online platforms to check inventory and compare prices before visiting a store.
Specialized Online Retailers
- Pros: Extensive selection, often lower prices, access to specialized knowledge and customer support. Websites like etrailer.com, Northern Tool + Equipment, and Amazon (carefully vetted sellers) often offer a broader range of bearings and related components.
- Cons: Shipping time, potential return hassles, difficulty in physically inspecting the bearing before purchase.
- Tip: Read customer reviews carefully and verify the seller’s reputation before making a purchase. Check the return policy thoroughly.
Trailer Supply Stores
- Pros: Dedicated expertise, knowledgeable staff, focus on trailer-specific components. If you live near a trailer supply store, they are an excellent resource for bearings, axles, and other towing-related parts.
- Cons: Limited geographic availability, potentially higher prices.
- Tip: Consider calling ahead to confirm they have the specific bearing you need in stock.
Local Bearing Suppliers
- Pros: Potential for very competitive pricing, expert knowledge of bearings and their applications. These suppliers often cater to industrial and agricultural needs, and can provide OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) bearings.
- Cons: May require more technical knowledge to identify the correct bearing, less convenient for general consumers.
- Tip: Have the bearing dimensions and axle information readily available when contacting them.
Making the Right Purchase Decision
- Prioritize Quality: Don’t skimp on bearings. A few extra dollars can mean the difference between a safe tow and a roadside breakdown.
- Read Reviews: Online reviews provide valuable insights into the product’s performance and the seller’s reliability.
- Compare Prices: Don’t settle for the first offer you see. Compare prices from multiple sources to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
- Verify Compatibility: Double-check that the bearing you’re buying is compatible with your trailer’s axle.
- Consider a Kit: Purchasing a bearing kit that includes seals, grease, and cotter pins can save time and ensure you have all the necessary components for a complete replacement.
FAQs: Trailer Wheel Bearing Essentials
FAQ 1: How often should I replace my trailer wheel bearings?
Regular inspection and maintenance are key. A good rule of thumb is to repack the bearings with grease every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Complete replacement should occur every 3-5 years, depending on usage and environmental conditions. If you notice any signs of wear, such as noise, roughness, or excessive heat, replace them immediately.
FAQ 2: What are the signs that my trailer wheel bearings need replacing?
Warning signs include: unusual noises (grinding, squealing), excessive heat in the hub area, loose or wobbly wheel, visible grease leaking from the seal, and rough or difficult wheel rotation.
FAQ 3: Can I replace trailer wheel bearings myself?
Yes, with the right tools, knowledge, and patience, you can. However, it requires some mechanical aptitude and familiarity with automotive repair. If you’re uncomfortable with the process, it’s best to take your trailer to a qualified mechanic. Be sure to use a bearing packer to ensure proper grease distribution.
FAQ 4: What tools do I need to replace trailer wheel bearings?
Essential tools include: jack, jack stands, lug wrench, socket set, hammer, punch, bearing packer, bearing race and seal driver, grease gun, and safety glasses. A brake tool might also be needed if the trailer has brakes.
FAQ 5: What type of grease should I use for trailer wheel bearings?
Use a high-temperature, waterproof grease specifically designed for trailer wheel bearings. Lithium complex grease is a good option. Avoid using general-purpose automotive grease.
FAQ 6: How do I properly grease trailer wheel bearings?
The key is to ensure the grease fully penetrates the bearing. Use a bearing packer to force grease between the rollers and races. If you’re doing it manually, pack the grease into the bearing from both sides until it’s completely full.
FAQ 7: What is the difference between inner and outer wheel bearings?
The inner and outer bearings are typically different sizes to accommodate the tapered design of the axle. The inner bearing is usually larger and located closer to the axle shaft.
FAQ 8: What is a bearing buddy and should I use one?
A bearing buddy is a grease fitting that allows you to add grease to the hub without removing the wheel. It helps maintain proper lubrication and pressure inside the hub, preventing water and contaminants from entering. They are particularly useful for boat trailers that are frequently submerged. However, over-greasing can damage the rear seal.
FAQ 9: How do I properly install a new trailer wheel bearing seal?
Clean the hub surface thoroughly and apply a thin layer of grease to the seal’s outer edge. Use a seal driver to gently tap the seal into place, ensuring it’s seated squarely and flush with the hub. Avoid using a hammer directly on the seal, as this can damage it.
FAQ 10: What if I can’t find the exact bearing size for my trailer?
Contact a specialized bearing supplier or a trailer repair shop. They may be able to source the bearing or recommend a compatible alternative. Ensure you provide accurate measurements and axle information.
FAQ 11: Can I reuse my old trailer wheel bearings if they look okay?
It’s generally not recommended. Bearings are relatively inexpensive, and the risk of failure is high. Replacing them is a worthwhile investment in safety and reliability.
FAQ 12: What should I do after replacing my trailer wheel bearings?
Torque the axle nut to the manufacturer’s specifications. This is crucial for proper bearing preload. After a short test drive (approximately 50 miles), check the hub temperature. If it’s excessively hot, re-check the bearing preload and adjust as needed. Regular inspections are essential for the first few hundred miles.