Repacking trailer bearings

[Ed Harris]

I am getting ready to repack the trailer bearings. I have never done this before. I have downloaded some information from the internet on doing this. Does anyone have any words of wisdom on repacking bearings? What type of solvent do I use to clean the bearings?

Thanks,

Ed

[Charlie Jones]

I clean mine using paint thinner, which is 100% mineral spirits, but cheaper. After I inspect them, AND the races in the hub, I grease using the old " Glob of grease in the hand" trick:) I've found that works quite well and has for me for over 40 years now. Just drag the bearing wide side down through the glob of grease till the grease comes out the other edge, rotating it as you go. Then wipe a goodly layer over the outside of the bearing and on the race and reinstall. Don't over tighten the nut. Better to have a very slight (very slight) click in the bearing than to have it too tight. I generally run the nut down tight to where the wheel stops turning, back it off loose, then run it back down till I can feel a definite drag in the rotation, then back off ONE notch and insert the cotter pin. Do use a new pin- they are cheap.

And don't worry over much- It ain't brain surgery:)

[Guest Anonymous]

Charlie hit it right on the money! Now easier way, unless you have a bearing packer (which I don't). Been doing it the way he describes for years!

capt jake