Trailer Bearing Seal: The Unsung Hero of Your RV

When you're planning your next RV adventure, it's important to make sure that your trailer is in tip-top shape. That means paying attention to all of the small details, including the trailer bearing seal.

This unsung hero plays a vital role in protecting your trailer's wheel bearings from the elements and keeping them lubricated. Without a properly functioning trailer bearing seal, your wheel bearings can quickly become damaged, leading to costly repairs.

Why is the trailer bearing seal important?

The trailer bearing seal is a rubber or metal ring that fits snugly around the axle shaft. It acts as a barrier between the wheel bearings and the outside world, keeping out dirt, water, and other contaminants. It also helps to keep the lubricant in the bearings, which is essential for their proper operation.

What are the signs of a bad trailer bearing seal?

There are a few signs that can indicate a bad trailer bearing seal. These include:

• Leaking lubricant
• Worn or damaged rubber or metal ring
• Loose or missing bolts
• Grinding or squealing noises when the trailer is in motion

How to replace a trailer bearing seal

Replacing a trailer bearing seal is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. However, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure that the seal is installed properly.

Here are the basic steps involved in replacing a trailer bearing seal:

1. Remove the wheel and tire.
2. Remove the hub cap and cotter pin**.
3. Unscrew the castle nut and remove the washer**.
4. Pull the hub off the axle**.
5. Remove the old bearing seal from the hub**.
6. Install the new bearing seal on the hub**.
7. Reassemble the hub and wheel**.

How to prevent trailer bearing seal failure

There are a few things you can do to help prevent trailer bearing seal failure, including:

• Keep your trailer clean. Dirt and debris can build up on the trailer bearing seal, causing it to wear prematurely.
• Lubricate the wheel bearings regularly. This will help to keep the bearings in good condition and prevent the seal from drying out.
• Avoid submerging the trailer in water. Water can get into the bearings and damage the seal**.

Additional tips for trailer bearing maintenance

In addition to replacing the bearing seal, there are a few other things you can do to keep your trailer bearings in good condition, including:

• Check the wheel bearings for play. There should be no more than 0.005 inches of play.
• Inspect the bearing races for wear. The races should be smooth and free of any pitting or scoring.
• Repack the wheel bearings with fresh lubricant every 10,000 miles**.

By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your trailer bearing seal and keep your RV running smoothly.

Trailer Bearing Seal Stories

Here are a few humorous stories about trailer bearing seal failures:

• The Squealing Wheel: One time, I was driving down the highway when I heard a loud squealing noise coming from my trailer. I pulled over and checked the wheel bearings, and sure enough, the seal had failed. I was able to replace the seal myself, but it was a good reminder of the importance of regular trailer bearing maintenance.
• The Wobbly Wheel: Another time, I was driving down a bumpy road when I felt my trailer start to wobble. I pulled over and checked the wheel bearings, and one of the seals had completely failed. The wheel was so loose that it was almost falling off. I had to call a tow truck to take my trailer to a repair shop.
• The Leaking Seal: One time, I was getting ready to go on a camping trip when I noticed that there was a puddle of lubricant under my trailer. I checked the wheel bearings, and one of the seals had failed. I was able to replace the seal myself, but it was a good reminder of the importance of checking your trailer bearings before you go on a trip.

What we learn from trailer bearing seal stories

These stories highlight the importance of trailer bearing seal maintenance. By following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent trailer bearing seal failure and keep your RV running smoothly.

Trailer Bearing Seal Resources

• RV Owner's Manual
• Trailer Bearing Maintenance Guide
• How to Replace a Trailer Bearing Seal

Trailer Bearing Seal Tables

Table 1: Trailer Bearing Seal Sizes

Table 2: Trailer Bearing Seal Types

Table 3: Trailer Bearing Seal Features