Re-packing bearings

[TLLOYD]

I have a 2007 Fuzion fifth wheel and paid $125 per axle (X3 axles) 2 years ago to have the bearings serviced. I can't see paying that again when it seems easy enough to do it myself.

I took the tire and hub off to get a look at it. Was easy enough to get castle nut, washers and bearings out. It all looked good and still had red bearing grease. I don't take it out much.

Question I have is that there is a zerk fitting on the end of the axle shaft. I assume this if for maintenance purposes for pumping in some grease before trips? The bearings and end cap had a good amount of grease in/on them, but the cavity between the inner and outer bearings did not.

After I repack the bearings, do I need to pump grease into the zerk fitting? If so, how much and does the cavity between the bearing need to be filled? I am asuuming not because it wasn't after I had it serviced at the shop, but I want to make sure I do it the right way before my next trip.

It would take a lot of grease to fill that cavity and the only way to know it is full is when the grease comes out of the outer bearing.

How often should I be re-packing the bearings?

Thanks

[Dr_Quick]

You are much better off to pack the wheel bearing by hand, then to use the Zerk fitting. If you check the "forum" you will find a lot of problems from over greasing the bearings. Grease is not like motor oil that it is used as you drive. My F250 recommends 60K intervals for greasing front bearings. Or about 5 years. I did them at 58K and they were in perfect condition. I have seen some vehicles go 100K before greasing. Om my 5th I try to do the bearing about every 12K, more to inspect brakes then worry about bearings.