How Often Should Trailer Bearings be Repacked with Grease

Updated 02/25/2010 | Published 02/24/2010

Question:

How often should you repack bearings if you use bearing buddies and grease regularly? How often should you replace bearings to prevent problems?

asked by: Paul A

Expert Reply:

Bearings and races can last an awful long time if you properly keep them greased and examine them when you repack with grease.

With or without bearing buddies, we recommend repacking grease once a year. This not only provides fresh grease each year, but it is the perfect time to examine races and bearings. Check for discoloration from heat on the races. If you find dark spots or rings on the races, you should replace races and bearings. Also, run your fingernail along the race and if it snags, it is time to replace race and bearings. There is no need to replace bearings or races until you see cracks, heat marks, nicks, or any other sign of wear.

I have included a video below on inspecting bearings and another video on how to pack bearings with grease.

expert reply by: Patrick B