Replacing buddy bearings, more accurately known as bearing protectors, on your trailer is a vital maintenance task that prevents costly wheel bearing failures and ensures safe towing. By carefully removing the old protectors, inspecting the bearings and races, packing the new bearings with grease, and properly installing the new protectors, you can significantly extend the life of your trailer’s running gear and avoid roadside breakdowns.
Why Replace Buddy Bearings?
Bearing protectors are not bearings themselves; rather, they are devices designed to maintain a constant pressure of grease inside the wheel hub, preventing water and contaminants from entering and damaging the bearings. Over time, these protectors can become damaged, lose their pressure, or corrode, rendering them ineffective. Replacing them proactively, especially during routine bearing maintenance, is a crucial step in safeguarding your trailer. This process ensures your bearings are properly lubricated and protected, extending their lifespan and minimizing the risk of catastrophic failure while traveling.
Gathering Your Tools and Supplies
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and supplies. This will streamline the process and prevent frustrating interruptions. You will need:
- New bearing protectors of the correct size for your axle
- High-quality wheel bearing grease
- A grease gun
- A hammer
- A punch or drift
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- A rubber mallet (optional, but recommended)
- A catch pan or rags for grease
- A shop towel or clean rag
- Jack and jack stands (if working with the wheel on the trailer)
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Bearing Protectors
1. Prepare the Trailer
If you are working with the wheel on the trailer, safely jack up the trailer and secure it with jack stands. Ensure the trailer is stable before proceeding. Chock the wheels on the opposite side of the trailer for added safety. If you’ve removed the wheels, proceed directly to removing the old bearing protector.
2. Remove the Old Bearing Protector
Using a punch or drift, gently tap around the circumference of the old bearing protector to loosen it. Work your way around evenly to avoid damaging the hub. Continue tapping until the protector comes loose and can be removed by hand. If it’s particularly stubborn, use a larger punch and a more forceful, but still controlled, hammer strike.
3. Inspect the Bearings and Races
With the bearing protector removed, carefully inspect the wheel bearings and races (the cups the bearings sit in). Look for signs of damage such as pitting, discoloration, or excessive wear. If you find any damage, the bearings and/or races should be replaced. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your trailer’s running gear.
4. Clean and Pack the Bearings
If the bearings are in good condition, thoroughly clean them with a parts cleaner or degreaser. Allow them to dry completely. Then, pack the bearings with fresh wheel bearing grease. This can be done manually by pressing grease into the bearing until it comes out the other side, or using a bearing packer tool for a more efficient and thorough job.
5. Install the Outer Bearing
If you removed the bearings to inspect them, carefully reinstall the outer bearing into the hub. Ensure it is seated properly.
6. Install the New Bearing Protector
Apply a light coating of grease to the outside of the new bearing protector. Carefully align the protector with the hub opening. Using a rubber mallet or a hammer and a block of wood, gently tap the protector into place. Work your way around the circumference of the protector to ensure it is seated evenly. Continue tapping until the protector is flush with the hub. Do not overtighten, as this could damage the protector or the hub.
7. Grease the Bearing Protector
Using a grease gun, fill the bearing protector with grease until the spring-loaded piston moves outward. Refer to the bearing protector’s instructions for the correct amount of grease. Avoid over-greasing, as this can blow out the rear seal.
8. Repeat on the Other Side
Repeat steps 2-7 on the other wheel hub of the axle.
9. Reinstall the Wheels (If Removed)
If you removed the wheels, reinstall them and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
10. Lower the Trailer
If you jacked up the trailer, carefully lower it to the ground. Double-check the lug nut torque after driving a short distance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the symptoms of bad buddy bearings (bearing protectors)?
While “buddy bearings” themselves don’t fail, symptoms of ineffective bearing protectors include: difficulty greasing the bearings, visible grease leaking from the rear seal, wheel hub running hot, play in the wheel, and unusual noises like grinding or squealing from the wheel area. These indicate that water and contaminants may have entered the bearings.
2. How often should I replace my trailer’s bearing protectors?
Bearing protectors should be inspected regularly, ideally every time you grease your bearings. Replacement is recommended every 1-2 years, or sooner if they show signs of damage or corrosion, or if they lose their ability to hold grease pressure. Heavy use trailers should be inspected and potentially have the protectors replaced more frequently.
3. Can I just add grease without replacing the bearing protectors?
Adding grease is essential for maintaining bearing health, but it won’t solve the problem if the bearing protectors are damaged or ineffective. You will just be wasting grease because it will leak out. If the protectors are compromised, they need to be replaced to properly protect the bearings. Adding grease without addressing the underlying issue will only provide temporary relief.
4. What type of grease should I use for trailer wheel bearings?
Use a high-quality, marine-grade wheel bearing grease specifically designed for trailers. This type of grease is formulated to resist water washout and provide excellent lubrication under heavy loads and high temperatures. Lithium complex grease is a commonly used option.
5. How do I know what size bearing protector to buy?
You need to determine the inner diameter of your wheel hub. This can usually be found in your trailer’s manual or by measuring the opening in the hub. The bearing protector should fit snugly into the hub. Consult a trailer parts supplier or your trailer manufacturer if you’re unsure.
6. What happens if I over-grease the bearing protectors?
Over-greasing can blow out the rear seal on the hub, allowing grease to leak out and water and contaminants to enter the bearings. This can lead to premature bearing failure. Follow the bearing protector manufacturer’s instructions for greasing.
7. Can I replace the bearing protectors myself, or should I take it to a professional?
Replacing bearing protectors is a relatively straightforward DIY task if you have basic mechanical skills and the right tools. However, if you are uncomfortable working on your trailer’s running gear, or if you suspect more serious issues with your bearings, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic.
8. What’s the difference between bearing buddies and bearing protectors?
“Bearing Buddy” is a specific brand name of bearing protector, similar to how “Kleenex” is a brand name for facial tissue. All Bearing Buddies are bearing protectors, but not all bearing protectors are Bearing Buddies. The terms are often used interchangeably.
9. What do I do if the old bearing protector is stuck?
If the old bearing protector is stuck, try using a penetrating oil and letting it soak for a few hours. You can also try using a larger punch and a more forceful hammer strike, but be careful not to damage the hub. Heat can sometimes help, but be very cautious and use appropriate safety measures.
10. How do I dispose of used wheel bearing grease?
Used wheel bearing grease should be disposed of properly as it is considered hazardous waste. Contact your local recycling center or auto parts store to see if they offer a grease recycling program. Never pour used grease down the drain or into the ground.
11. What if I find damage to the races when inspecting them?
If you find damage to the races, you must replace them along with the bearings. Replacing the races requires special tools, such as a race driver set. If you don’t have the tools or experience, it’s best to take the hub to a professional mechanic.
12. After replacing the bearing protectors, how often should I grease the bearings?
Grease your bearings every 3,000 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first, especially if you frequently tow your trailer in wet conditions. Regular greasing is essential for maintaining bearing health and extending their lifespan. Inspecting the bearing protector each time you grease is also important.