How To Replace Trailer Wheel Bearings

1.Park the trailer on a flat, level surface.

2.Place wheel chocks on the opposite side to prevent movement.

3.Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you'll be working on, but do not remove them.

1.Use a jack to lift the trailer, then place jack stands under the frame for support.

2.Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

1.Pry off the dust cap with pliers or a flathead screwdriver.

2.Remove the cotter pin and the castle nut (use pliers to straighten the pin first if needed).

3.Slide off the washer and then the hub, being careful to keep the bearings from falling out.

1.Pull out the outer bearing from the hub.

2.Use a hammer and a punch to gently tap out the inner bearing and seal from the hub.

3.Clean the hub with rags or paper towels to remove old grease and inspect for damage.

1.Pack the new bearings with grease (use a grease gun or manually work the grease into the bearings until it oozes out).

2.Place the inner bearing into the hub and tap in a new seal using a rubber mallet.

3.Grease the spindle and slide the hub back onto it.

4.Insert the outer bearing into the hub.

1.Slide the washer and then the castle nut onto the spindle.

2.Tighten the castle nut while spinning the hub to seat the bearings. Then back off slightly to allow for a slight free-play.

3.Insert a new cotter pin through the hole in the spindle and bend the ends to secure it.

1.Tap the dust cap back into place.

2.Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

3.Lower the trailer off the jack stands and fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern using a torque wrench.

1.Spin the wheel to ensure it moves freely and there is no excessive play.

2.Recheck the torque on the lug nuts after driving a short distance.