axle, hub, bearing question

Only replace bearings and races (need to do in match set) if heat damaged (Shows up with bluing on them) or unusual wear patterns.

You don't need to get new bearings every time.. You will need new rear bearing 'seals' if you pull out the old ones to get to the rear bearings.

I don't pull the seals every time I do the bearings.. I just make sure they get some new grease added and call it good.. ;)

When the time comes to need to bearings or even the seals, you can pull a set and bring them with you to the auto parts store to match them up as needed..

It's not difficult, but it is messy and you have to jack and support the trailer and have some basic hand tools and some DIY ambition! :)

Good luck!

Mitch

How do I know which bearing set to get? What all comes with the set?

I was advised long ago to have my new trailer wheel bearings "re'greased" as the rigs come from the factory with little or no grease in them.

Given this information, I ignored the advice and waited a couple years as we didn't use the trailer much.

After that, we retired, so I had new tires (old ones aged out) and had bearings checked. Guess what....I was lucky. I actually saw the bearing when they were removed. Barely any grease was on all 4 sets.

My trailer was brand new back then....2002 Jayco Eagle 5th wheel.

Getter done!

You really should adjust the brakes at least yearly.

Since you did not have the means to add grease the bearings should be serviced and inspected. The brakes are easy to adjust and work very similar to brake adjustment of drum brakes from yesteryear. My next travel trailer will have self adjusters though.

Yes, you should grease the hubs and probably adjust the brakes. It is not hard. There is a complete tutorial, complete with pictures of how to do it, made by our member JBarca, here.

I suggest you read it, then decide if it is something you want to tackle. If not, then you should take it to a dealer or someone who can do it for you. It is past due.
Barney