Recently, I tackled some routine maintenance on my trailer. I started by jacking up one wheel with a 20-ton bottle jack under the U-clamps—something I’ve done for years without issues, even though RV makers suggest using the I-beam frame. I took off one wheel at a time, cleaned them up, and pulled the brake drums to inspect and adjust the brakes.
Then, I got to work on the wheel bearings—cleaned out the old grease with WD40 and brake cleaner, repacked them with Lucas Red and Tacky grease, and greased the spindles too. I also used some Atom Lube Ultra Heavy Duty Red Grease on the suspension bushings via the Zerk fittings.
Since I forgot my seal puller, I used a crowbar to remove the old seals (they get wrecked anyway) and tapped in new Timken seals. I didn’t have my big socket for the hub nut either, so I tightened it by feel—about 50 lbs to seat the bearings—then backed it off a bit until the clip fit.
The brakes got a once-over with brake cleaner, and I adjusted the star adjuster to get a slight drag. The bearings and brakes looked solid—no pitting, just minor wear on the spindle and drums. I wrapped up by greasing everything, reassembling everything, and double-checking with a torque wrench on the lug nuts.
It’s a dirty job, but I do it every couple of years, and after 14 years, I’ve had no bearing issues. Check my older videos for the full breakdown—this was just a quick refresh!
Related Videos:
- Detailed Step-by-step Bearing and Brake Replacement
- Road Amor Equalizer Installation and Suspension Upgrades
- Trailer Tire Tips and Advice
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Source: More Trailer Maintenance – Bearing Grease/Repack + Brake Clean/Adjust
