Greasing trailer bearings without Bearing Buddies requires a more hands-on approach, but it’s crucial for ensuring longevity and preventing costly roadside breakdowns. This involves manually packing the bearings with grease and regularly inspecting them for wear and tear, a process that, while more involved, offers superior control over lubrication and bearing health compared to relying solely on Bearing Buddies.
Understanding Trailer Bearing Grease and Its Importance
Trailer bearings are the unsung heroes supporting the weight of your trailer and enabling smooth wheel rotation. Proper lubrication is paramount to prevent friction, heat buildup, and ultimately, bearing failure. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to catastrophic consequences, including wheel detachment and potentially dangerous accidents. Choosing the right grease and applying it correctly is therefore essential for safe and reliable trailering.
Types of Grease for Trailer Bearings
Selecting the appropriate grease is crucial for optimal bearing performance. Lithium complex greases are a popular choice due to their excellent water resistance, high-temperature performance, and overall versatility. These greases effectively repel water, preventing corrosion and maintaining their lubricating properties even under harsh conditions. Synthetic greases offer even greater advantages in extreme temperatures and heavy-duty applications, providing superior protection against wear and extending bearing life. Always refer to your trailer’s manufacturer recommendations for specific grease requirements.
The Manual Grease Packing Method: Step-by-Step
When Bearing Buddies are not installed or if you prefer a more thorough approach, manual grease packing is the gold standard. This method ensures complete and even lubrication, maximizing bearing lifespan and preventing premature failure.
Removing the Wheel and Hub Assembly
- Safely jack up the trailer and secure it with jack stands. Never work under a trailer supported only by a jack.
- Remove the wheel and tire assembly.
- Carefully remove the dust cap or grease cap covering the hub. You may need a screwdriver and hammer to gently tap it off.
- Remove the cotter pin securing the castle nut. Discard the old cotter pin.
- Unscrew the castle nut. You may need a wrench for this step.
- Remove the washer behind the castle nut.
- Gently pull the hub assembly straight off the spindle. Be prepared for the outer bearing to come loose and potentially fall.
Inspecting and Cleaning the Bearings
- Carefully remove the outer bearing from the hub.
- Turn the hub over and tap it gently on a wooden surface to dislodge the inner bearing and grease seal.
- Thoroughly clean all bearings, races (the bearing surfaces inside the hub), and the spindle with a solvent-based parts cleaner. Ensure all old grease and debris are removed.
- Inspect the bearings and races for signs of wear, pitting, or discoloration. Replace any damaged components immediately.
Packing the Bearings with Grease
- Place a generous amount of grease in the palm of your hand.
- Press the wide end of the bearing into the grease, forcing it to work its way through the rollers and cage. Continue until grease emerges from the opposite side. This ensures all internal surfaces are thoroughly lubricated. A bearing packer tool can also be used for this process, simplifying and speeding up the task.
- Wipe off any excess grease.
Reassembling the Hub
- Lightly grease the inside of the hub where the races sit.
- Carefully install the inner bearing race into the hub using a bearing race installer or a hammer and a suitable punch. Ensure the race is seated evenly and flush with the hub.
- Install a new grease seal using a grease seal installation tool. Avoid damaging the seal during installation.
- Carefully insert the packed inner bearing into the hub.
- Slide the hub assembly back onto the spindle.
- Insert the packed outer bearing onto the spindle, followed by the washer and castle nut.
- Tighten the castle nut until snug, then back it off slightly.
- Tighten the castle nut to the point where there is minimal play in the hub but the wheel still spins freely.
- Insert a new cotter pin through the castle nut and spindle to secure it. Bend the ends of the cotter pin around the castle nut.
- Install the dust cap or grease cap.
- Reinstall the wheel and tire assembly.
- Lower the trailer and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Trailer Bearing Grease
Q1: How often should I grease my trailer bearings without Bearing Buddies?
Regular inspection and greasing are crucial. Generally, re-pack your trailer bearings every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, if you frequently tow in wet or dusty conditions, more frequent maintenance may be necessary. Inspect your bearings visually before each trip and listen for any unusual noises while driving.
Q2: What are the signs of trailer bearing failure?
Common signs include excessive wheel play, unusual noises (grinding, rumbling, or squealing), excessive heat in the hub, and grease leaking from the seal. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to complete bearing failure and potential accidents.
Q3: Can I mix different types of grease when packing trailer bearings?
Mixing different types of grease is generally not recommended. Incompatible greases can react negatively, leading to reduced lubrication effectiveness and premature bearing wear. It’s always best to use the same type of grease consistently.
Q4: Do I need special tools to grease trailer bearings manually?
While not strictly necessary, certain tools can significantly simplify the process. These include a jack and jack stands, a bearing packer tool, a bearing race installer, a grease seal installation tool, a solvent-based parts cleaner, wrenches, a screwdriver, and a hammer.
Q5: Can I over-grease my trailer bearings?
Yes, over-greasing can be detrimental. Excessive grease pressure can damage the grease seal, leading to leaks and allowing contaminants to enter the bearings. Follow the recommended procedures and avoid filling the hub completely.
Q6: Is it necessary to replace the grease seals every time I repack the bearings?
Yes, replacing the grease seals is highly recommended. Old seals can become brittle and lose their effectiveness, allowing water and contaminants to enter the bearings. Using new seals ensures proper sealing and prevents premature bearing failure.
Q7: What is the difference between wheel bearing grease and general-purpose grease?
Wheel bearing grease is specifically formulated for the high temperatures and pressures encountered in wheel bearings. It typically contains additives that provide enhanced water resistance, corrosion protection, and high-temperature stability. General-purpose grease may not offer the same level of protection.
Q8: Can I use a grease gun to pack trailer bearings manually?
While a grease gun can be used to initially fill the palm of your hand for manual packing, it’s not recommended to directly force grease into the bearing without first ensuring proper distribution. The manual method, even with a bearing packer, offers more control.
Q9: How do I properly dispose of used grease?
Used grease is considered hazardous waste and should be disposed of properly. Contact your local recycling center or auto parts store for information on grease recycling or disposal options. Never dump used grease down drains or into the environment.
Q10: What is the proper way to clean the bearings and races?
Use a solvent-based parts cleaner and a brush to thoroughly remove all old grease, dirt, and debris from the bearings and races. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the surfaces. Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when working with solvents.
Q11: What should I do if I find pitting or discoloration on the bearings or races?
Pitting or discoloration indicates wear or damage and requires immediate replacement. Continuing to use damaged bearings can lead to complete failure and potentially dangerous situations.
Q12: Where can I find the correct torque specifications for the lug nuts on my trailer?
The correct torque specifications can be found in your trailer’s owner’s manual or on a sticker located near the wheels. Using a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque ensures proper wheel attachment and prevents over-tightening, which can damage the wheels or studs.