DIY vs. "professional" maintenance

As this was my first attempt, I have a lot to learn about using this "forum." Thanks for the replies. Regarding the question of a torque wrench, all I observed was the pneumatic gun. (Can't miss that sound!) Spindle nut adjustment technique wasn't witnessed either. I was reluctant to hover over the mechanic even though work was done outside the shop.

Thanks again.

Campfire Time wrote:

iwannagetgoin wrote:
Took our 26' tow-behind to a local brake shop

If you must have it done, take it toreputable trailer shop next time. Not a brake shop. A brake and/or auto shop these days isn't dealing with bearings on most cars like years ago. Bearings are sealed in hub assemblies, and that's what they are used to working on. It's very likely this character has never done real bearings before.

And a good trailer shop knows exactly where to jack up the trailer.

I agree with the above. Also the fact that many shops that just do brakes may have entry level technicians who are not used to doing things the "old school" way like an experienced trailer tech.

iwannagetgoin wrote:
Took our 26' tow-behind to a local brake shop

If you must have it done, take it to a reputable trailer shop next time. Not a brake shop. A brake and/or auto shop these days isn't dealing with bearings on most cars like years ago. Bearings are sealed in hub assemblies, and that's what they are used to working on. It's very likely this character has never done real bearings before.

And a good trailer shop knows exactly where to jack up the trailer.

I'd read or viewed leaving me to wonder if I shouldn't have attempted the work myself. Would any of the three "mistakes" constitute a serious offense?

Not really, just job security for them at later date.

Truth is that your trailer is probably fine for 2 to 10 years.
Nothing he did should cause any issue. The critical point is setting the spindle nut where there was no comment.

Also did he use a torque wrench on the lugs?

The quality of work in any industry, or do-it-yourself is only as good as the person performing it.

Find another shop.

I would stay with the pros, as I CAN repack wheel bearings, but hate it.

well if you take it apart?? you might as well do the job right. its not hard just messy. and popping the seals is easy. puting them back in is the hardest of the hole job but still can be done by any body. yep you got a half as job.

Not serious problems, but illustrates how an observant and skilled owner can at times do "better" work than a shop. They were focused on doing JUST what you asked for and nothing more. You would take your time and do little things that just make for a better end result.

I do essentially ALL my own work from mechanical to fabrication on every vehicle I own. I do use a shop when time or inconvenience is a factor, but the shops I go to understand that I am fully qualified to do the work. As such, the relationships are less customer/service provider and feel more like professional courtesy. If you can develop that kind of relationship with a shop, it goes a long way toward peace of mind and adequate repair work.

Jose