Greasing wheel bearings

[Flatfive]

Our 2002 Fleetwood Prowler has two axles but no Zerk fittings for the wheel bearings. There is a large axle nut with a cotter pin. I guess to properly grease the bearings I'd have to remove the nut and pull the wheel off (wheel puller required?). Then apply grease and replace the seals and then the wheels and nuts. I'm on a big road trip (6 months so far). Today I removed the grease caps and filled them with grease. Then I pushed the caps back on and tapped them in place with a hammer. My question is: did this do any good at all? Where can I take it for a proper grease job?

[TexasChaps]

LVJJJ wrote:

Trackrig wrote:
No it didn't really do any good. I'd take it to an RV shop since you haven't done it before and you're not at home. If you can't get it into one (call a mobil RV tech if you're in an RV park) go to YouTube to watch several videos first.

This is just one of many videos.

Also, while they're in there, have them inspect / adjust the brakes. When was the last time there were done?

Bill

I don't think I agree with this video, he didn't pre-load the bearings by tightening the castle nut then backing it off before inserting the "carter" pin. Also I wouldn't pack the groove in the rear seal with grease as that will seap out in hot weather and possibly get on the brake shoes.

Also have to disagree with coffeegrinder, never have had to replace a single bearing in 27 years of TT RV'ing on any of my several TT's ranging from 1973 to brand new (always replace seals though). I've repacked them all when needed and fortunately they've all been good. Couple of years ago we had an '85 Wilderness with original axles and bearings, repacked them with no problem, who knows how many miles were on them. With good maintenance (repacking at least once a year) they'll last as long as the trailer. Whenever I buy a used trailer, first thing I do is repack the bearings, check all the brakes and adjust if they are in good shape. Should never get a vehicle rolling unless you know you can stop it.

x2 on the preload.. also you have to remember that older trailers came with quality bearings from Timken/SKF or Federal Mougal.. these new trailers come with suzi wong china bearings that last long enough to get you off the dealer lot..:E

[All_I_could_aff]

Regardless of which place you go to for bearing service, make sure they use a clean container of grease... Not a nasty old uncovered can that everybody and his uncle has dipped their fingers into while lubing miscellaneous parts around the shop. Even tiny bits of stray material can destroy your bearings. Also make sure they have a clean work area and don't lay the grease covered bearings down on the ground while getting ready for reassembly.

[LVJJJ]

Trackrig wrote:
No it didn't really do any good. I'd take it to an RV shop since you haven't done it before and you're not at home. If you can't get it into one (call a mobil RV tech if you're in an RV park) go to YouTube to watch several videos first.

This is just one of many videos.

Also, while they're in there, have them inspect / adjust the brakes. When was the last time there were done?

Bill

I don't think I agree with this video, he didn't pre-load the bearings by tightening the castle nut then backing it off before inserting the "carter" pin. Also I wouldn't pack the groove in the rear seal with grease as that will seap out in hot weather and possibly get on the brake shoes.

Also have to disagree with coffeegrinder, never have had to replace a single bearing in 27 years of TT RV'ing on any of my several TT's ranging from 1973 to brand new (always replace seals though). I've repacked them all when needed and fortunately they've all been good. Couple of years ago we had an '85 Wilderness with original axles and bearings, repacked them with no problem, who knows how many miles were on them. With good maintenance (repacking at least once a year) they'll last as long as the trailer. Whenever I buy a used trailer, first thing I do is repack the bearings, check all the brakes and adjust if they are in good shape. Should never get a vehicle rolling unless you know you can stop it.

[johntank]

As for a place to have bearings packed all the ones already said plus most tire stores a small independent auto shop, they just would need to have enough room for you to park the trailer. I would look for a 3 to 4 hours labor charge for a tandem axle trailer if done correctly.

[Westcoasting]

Coffee Grinder wrote:
I would recommend replacing the bearing's and seals and not worrying about repacking. Do the same with brake pads

Why replace bearings if they are not worn though? It is still messy even with new bearings.

[Quality_Johnson]

Coffee Grinder wrote:
I would recommend replacing the bearing's and seals and not worrying about repacking. Do the same with brake pads

But don't forget to pack those new bearings, as they do not come with lube in them. They are just lightly oiled to prevent rust.

[Coffee_Grinder]

I would recommend replacing the bearing's and seals and not worrying about repacking. Do the same with brake pads

[Catrider1]

Whatever you decide to do, do not let anyone place a jack under the center of the axle to raise the tire off the ground. You will be replacing axles.

[DavidP]

azdryheat wrote:
Take your trailer in and let a pro handle it. BTW, I believe Camping World charges about $350 for three axles. I forget what two axles is but, for you, it will be worth the hassle of doing it yourself.

Glad to have some humor in this thread. HAHAHA, the Pros and CW. Now that is funny!

[deltabravo]

stevemorris wrote:
if its never been don or done recently, do it NOW

its easy, maybe 1/2 hour per wheel, usually takes longer to secure and jackup the tt

you don't need much for tools, jack, lug wrench, pliers and a small hammer and a flat screw driver

Rubber gloves too, and maybe a bearing packing tool.

[budwich]

and people worry about those owners that have the "easy grease zerk systems" about how the "average joe" can get those right. its got to be better than this "attempt". 🙂

[fitznj]

Trailer wheel bearings are older technology and the design has been around for decades (My 1964 MGB has the same style bearings).

You don't have to take it to an RV dealer as any good auto mechanic should be able to inspect/repack/replace these kinds of bearings and you don't need any special tools.

Heck I've done it on my driveway many times - it can get messy but it's really simple. Driving out the old races can get a bit tricky if you don't know what you are looking at.

You can also google "trailer services" in your area - they should be able to help you as well.

BTW - adjust the brakes while you're there...

[stevemorris]

if its never been don or done recently, do it NOW

its easy, maybe 1/2 hour per wheel, usually takes longer to secure and jackup the tt

you don't need much for tools, jack, lug wrench, pliers and a small hammer and a flat screw driver

bearing failure can be spectacular and expensive

not too long ago, front wheel bearings on cars were a regular maintainance item(repack and adjust), tt wheels are basically the same

[Old-Biscuit]

azdryheat wrote:
Take your trailer in and let a pro handle it. BTW, I believe Camping World charges about $350 for three axles. I forget what two axles is but, for you, it will be worth the hassle of doing it yourself.

Serious :H

That is an oxymoron statement!



OP..........

This long trip.....how much longer/farther ?

Are you just being Curious or Are you having bearing issues?