They're small, hidden and easy to forget about.
Until they're not.
Wheel bearings are an important part of your trailer's running gear, allowing the wheels to rotate smoothly around the spindle while carrying the trailer's load.
And because they're tucked inside the hub, you generally don't spend much time looking at them.
That doesn't mean they don't need attention.
What Do Trailer Wheel Bearings Do?
As your trailer wheels rotate, the bearings help reduce friction and allow the wheel and hub assembly to turn smoothly.
They're protected and lubricated with grease.
Over time, grease can deteriorate or become contaminated, seals can fail and bearings can wear or become damaged.
How Often Should Trailer Bearings Be Serviced?
There isn't one maintenance interval that's correct for every trailer.
The right schedule depends on the axle and component manufacturer's recommendations, trailer design, mileage, operating conditions and how the trailer is used.
A trailer working every day may need a different maintenance schedule from one that only gets used occasionally.
The important thing is to include the bearings in your regular trailer maintenance instead of waiting for symptoms of failure.
Signs Your Bearings May Need Attention
Pay attention if you notice:
- Unusual grinding or humming noises
- Excessive play or movement at a wheel
- Grease leaking around the hub or seal
- Unusual heat at a hub
- Uneven tire wear
- Vibration or changes in how the trailer feels while towing
Any of these are worth investigating.
Can I Just Add More Grease?
Not necessarily.
Adding grease isn't a substitute for inspecting worn or damaged components.
And different hub and lubrication systems have specific procedures and requirements.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your particular setup.
If you're not sure what you have, ask.
What Happens If a Bearing Fails?
A neglected bearing can create much more than an annoying noise.
Depending on the failure, it can damage the hub, spindle and other components and potentially leave the trailer unable to continue safely down the road.
That's why preventive maintenance is usually a much better plan than waiting for a failure.
Add Bearings to Your Trailer Maintenance Routine
You don't need to think about your wheel bearings every time you look at your trailer.
But you shouldn't forget about them either.
Follow the maintenance recommendations for your trailer and axle components, and have the trailer inspected if something doesn't look, sound or feel right.
Country Boy Trailers services bearings, hubs, brakes, axles and other trailer components at our Cumming and Mableton locations.
Not sure when yours were last checked?
That's probably a pretty good reason to check.
Behind You All The Way.