What Type of Wheel Bearing Grease to Use on Older Utility Trailer

Updated 06/11/2013 | Published 06/08/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 10" - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased

(1826)

$110.39

LubriMatic Professional Pistol Grease Gun

(36)

$52.37

LubriMatic Marine Trailer Wheel Bearing Grease - 3 oz. Cartridges - Qty 3

(299)

$25.15

LubriMatic Deluxe Bearing Packer

(62)

$30.49

Question:

Dear Etrailer: What type of grease should I use on the wheel bearings for an older utility trailer? The factory grease is a gray, silky, oily, lightweight grease. Thanks

asked by: Scott S

Expert Reply:

We offer both traditional petroleum-based wheel bearing grease and also more environmentally-friendly bio-based grease products that are produced from crops. It is permissible to mix the two types. From your description it appears you may have petroleum-based grease in your bearings now.

If your utility trailer will be exposed to water (and salt water especially) then I suggest a petroleum grease designed specifically to withstand such a corrosive environment, such as Lubrimatic Marine Grease part # L54FR. This product is water-insoluble and contains special additives to inhibit corrosion.

If you prefer a bio-based product you can use Ultra-Lube # L10333, which will resist thinning at higher temperatures.

Although bearings can be re-packed with grease by hand, we do offer tools designed for this purpose. The Lubrimatic Deluxe Bearing Packer, part # L70025, when combined with a grease gun such as # L30416, allows for a quicker and slightly less messy process.

I have included several articles and video links concerning types of lubricants and how to remove and pack bearings that might be helpful to you as you prepare for this project.