brakes and bearings

[happycampers]

I pulled my wheels today for the first time as I wanted to re-pack the bearings before we head to the factory rally at the end of the month. Brakes also needed adjusting too. First time I have ever done trailer bearings/brakes. I learned a few things and have a few questions for the experts.
One magnet was missing small little clip to snug it up and hold in place while installing drum on passenger side. Does this clip only hold in place till drum installed?? Or is it important? I plan on replacing, which means pulling the wheel again because I 'think' the magnet stayed in place but don't really know for sure.
Second, On off-door side both bearings looked like they have had water leak in. I had a feeling something was going on because every time I felt the centre cap on the rim this side felt a little warmer than the other side. Technically each bearing has an exact matching race. Do you guys replace the races or accept that the old race 'should' be fine?? DW is off tomorrow, so I am sending her out to a local garage to get them pressed out/in. I just want to know what the rest of the trailer world does in this situation...

thanks guys!!

[Lloyd]

Matt:
When I replaced the wheel bearings this spring, I replaced the races also, plus the grease seals. I got everything from this place.
http://www.etrailer.com/p-RG06-070.html?search=1
They are real good to talk to, very knowledgeable. Usually the gal that answers your call can answer your questions, if she can't she will transfer you to someone who can. If you look around on their web site, they have answers for just about all the questions a guy can ask.
I can't answer your question on the magnet. I just can't picture it sitting in there right now.
http://www.etrailer.com/question-8117.html

[happycampers]

I keep 2 sets of pre-packed spare bearings in a small plastic sandwich container with me all the time. I have all the pieces (inners/outers/races) plus about 1/2 dozen seals. It stays in the trailer as a form of insurance: If I have them, I'll never need them...
I had the dealer throw them in as part of the deal. I think the sticker price was 22 bucks or so. Last year while at the rally, I hit up a few rv surplus stores and thats where I got a few more seals. don't remember the price, but they were cheap. I think I will hit them up again for a few more spares.

[happycampers]

http://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Brak...er/23-458.html
These are not the right brakes, but will work for illustrative purposes. In the center of the magnet, there is a 'cross-shaped' hole where it slips over the metal bracket. You can see the top of this clip in the center. Its square and goes over the metal tab the magnet sits on.

[1olcatonr]

Never put new bearings in old races. The races can be knocked out with a punch if you known what you are doing and are careful. There are also seal and race removing tools you can probably rent from your local parts store. I like to use name brand bearings rather than the cheapest one I can find. A parts store that has electric brake parts should have the little clip you need for the magnet. Good luck.

[happycampers]

I got the races replaced today. Just have to put everything back together now. I have a tool for pulling seals.
I saw a race punch tool with different sized punches today for 50 bucks.... I think I'll have to add that to my tool box soon.

[angelinaS31]

Replacing will be an good option as far as my concern.

[fixit5561]

Yes you are always supposed to replace bearings and races at the same time. They are a matched set usually. I replaced all mine with Timken bearings a few years ago just so I would know that it had good bearings in it.