Guide To Trailer Wheel Bearings

Just as you can’t tow a bumper pull trailer with faulty tires, you can’t transport your load with defective wheel bearings. Trailer bearings are essential for ensuring your safety and protecting your load on the road. Whether you operate a construction company, haul luxury cars, or run a landscaping business, understanding how these small yet vital components function can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns while traveling along I-95 and the costly repairs that can occur.

At Bigfoot Trailers, we understand that preventing breakdowns is the key to a productive hauling operation. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to trailer wheel bearings, packed with everything you need to know to keep your trailer rolling on those long hauls.

What Are Wheel Bearings and Where Are They Located?

Imagine the weight of your entire trailer resting on a single, critical point. That’s the role of a wheel bearing. Installed inside the hub, trailer bearings allow the wheel’s smooth rotation while carrying the weight of your load. These bearings can wear down without proper lubrication and maintenance, creating friction and heat. It would be like running your truck without oil. This leads to premature tire wear and can cause the entire wheel to freeze, resulting in a roadside emergency and potentially damaging your trailer and its load. The consequences of bearing failure are inconvenient, costly, and a safety hazard.

Signs Your Trailer Bearings May Need Service

Like any mechanical component, wheel bearings wear down over time. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Noise: Often, the first sign of trouble is hearing specific sounds like metal grinding against metal, a low growling noise, or a high-pitched whining sound emanating from the wheels, which often point toward failing bearings.
• Uneven Tire Wear: Always inspect your tires before hitting the road. Spotting premature or uneven tire wear may be due to failing bearings.
• Overheating: Bearings carrying too much weight or haven’t been properly greased can overheat, causing the hub to feel hot to the touch.
• Pull: Pulling your trailer to one side could signify worn bearings.
• Wobbling Wheels: Excessive wobble in the wheel could be due to loose or damaged bearings.

Preventing Bearing Failure

The good news is that bearing problems are largely preventable with proper maintenance. Here is how to ensure your trailer’s bearings stay in top condition:

• Regular Inspections: Schedule routine inspections of your trailer bearings according to your manufacturer’s recommendations, which typically involve checking for play and repacking the grease every few thousand miles.
• Proper Lubrication: Use the recommended high-quality grease for your specific wheel bearings and apply it generously during repacking. Don’t over-grease, though, as excess grease can damage the seals.
• Maintenance Schedule: Consult your trailer’s owner’s manual for specific maintenance intervals and recommended lubricants for your bearings.

Bigfoot Trailers Feature Dexter Axles

We understand the importance of quality components. That’s why all our flat deck trailers feature rugged Dexter Axles equipped with premium bearings. Dexter Axles are renowned for their reliability and durability, ensuring your trailer is equipped to handle heavy loads on even the most challenging terrains.

Bigfoot Trailer Sales & Service

Bigfoot delivers flat deck trailers with premium wheel bearings for all your hauling needs! As a factory-direct manufacturer, we provide service in the entire Eastern United States with locations in Boston, MA; Cape Coral, FL; Jonesboro, GA; New York, NY; and by appointment with retailers in Fort Myers and Marianna, FL. Contact us at https://www.bigfoottrailers.net/ for a free quote.