Forum Discussion

RoyF's avatar
RoyF
Explorer
Apr 29, 2019

Can I repack my own wheel bearings?

I greased the front-wheel bearings of my International Scout a few times 50 years ago, but I have not looked at a wheel bearing since. Every year, I pay to have my fifth-wheel bearings repacked, but I wonder whether I could do that job myself. The fiver is a Hitchhiker 29.5.

I have the Trailer Life Repair and Maintainance Manual. Page 12.21 has an 18-step procedure for repacking wheel bearings. I ought to be able to follow the step-by-step. But first, do any of you who have doen this job have any advice before I take everything apart and then can't put them back again.

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  • ford_truck_guy's avatar
    ford_truck_guy
    Nomad
    Apr 29, 2019
    Roy,

    Like all others stated, it fairly easy, but largely messy . . .

    Just make sure you get rid of all the old.... and inspect the rollers while doing it..

    The job is pretty straight forward.... youtube it ! !
  • BarneyS's avatar
    BarneyS
    Explorer III
    Apr 29, 2019
    Take a look at this post for a complete tutorial, complete with pictures, of how to repack your wheel bearings and also how to adjust your trailer brakes. It is stuck at the top of the Towing forum.
    Barney
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Apr 29, 2019
    Not a hard job, just messy, and takes a little time to do things properly. I've seen some good videos, and some not so good. Watching listening to a video, can be better than reading from a maintenance manual.

    My tip...keep all bearing sets apart, if doing more than one at a time. Each set of bearings should go back in the same drum/races.

    Sure you can do it.

    Jerry
  • romore's avatar
    romore
    Explorer II
    Apr 29, 2019
    It is not a difficult job but a bit messy. No special tools are required although a bearing packer is nice to have. The worst part is working close to the ground which is why I no longer do it.
  • puchinno12's avatar
    puchinno12
    Explorer
    Apr 29, 2019
    Roy, check out youtube. Lots of how to videos there. It's actually pretty easy. Just a little messy. have plenty of rags. Also a good time to check your brakes condition .

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