How to Check Wheel Bearings on Travel Trailers

Wheel bearings keep the wheels turning easily, and grease allows the bearings to perform optimally. When the bearings run out of grease, or if the grease gets moisture in it, it can ruin the bearings and cause major problems. Checking the wheel bearings can help you avoid an expensive and often dangerous situation.

Instructions

1

Jack up one of the wheels, following the directions that come with your jack.

2

Put the jack stand under the axle.

3

Wiggle the wheel from side to side. If it wiggles, you will need to take the wheel off and make sure there is enough grease.

4

Spin the wheel. If it makes a dry, grinding noise, the wheel bearings need to be re-packed or filled with grease.

5

Remove the metal dust cap in the center of the wheel. Pinch it with the slip-joint pliers and wiggle it off. If you can see the grease, check for any moisture, which will appear as beaded water or milky-colored grease.

6

Remove the tire if you can't see the dust cap. Some wheels have a hubcap on the middle, which cannot be removed without removing the tire. The dust cap will be visible once you remove the tire. If it looks like there is moisture in the grease, you will need to re-pack the wheel bearings.

7

Repeat for the rest of the wheels.