Troubleshooting Burned Out Bearing on 2012 Skyline RV

Published 01/31/2020

Question:

Hello, I have a 14ft. 2012 Skyline that had a burned out bearing after 5 years and 3500 miles. Question 1- we had rim size upgrade from 14”rim to 15”rim, tires sameST205175R 5 bolt. Could that result in burned out bearing? The Axle says GAWR 2800 on axle. Metal label on trailer says GAWR 3500. Question 2- Should I go back to 14” rims? Which is on manufacturers metal plate on body, same tires? Can I install a larger axle and what weight size can I go up to? the trailer weight dry is 2220 lbs.? PS. Must admit I didn’t pack bearings before burn out. Thank you,

asked by: Ed H

Expert Reply:

As long as you're maintaining 4" of wheel well clearance and 2" of tire-to-frame clearance then there isn't any harm in using larger tires/wheels for your 2012 Skyline. Since you said that you haven't packed your bearings I can guarantee that's what happened. You likely either needed to add grease or completely change out the grease completely and since that didn't happen it caused your bearing to overheat or seize up and burn out. If you check out the attached trailer maintenance schedule you can see that we recommend checking on your bearings every 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first).

It is possible to upgrade your axle but it won't really do much for your bearings because your current axle weight rating is appropriate for your Skyline. Manufacturers will state a higher GVWR than what the axle is rated for because there will be a certain amount of tongue weight that is either transferred to the vehicle or to the trailer jack. Since there is more than goes into the weight rating of a trailer than just the axle and suspension capacities (like trailer frame strength) the only time that swapping out your axle would be a benefit is if you're current axle needs replacing.

I have attached a link to our trailer maintenance schedule as well as a link to our various trailer parts like replacement bearings and seals that you can filter through. If you need help choosing the correct replacement parts just let me know what your bearings numbers are or measure your spindle where the bearings ride to the 3rd decimal (1.234 for example) with a digital caliper so I can help you find the replacements for your Skyline.

expert reply by: Jon G