Repacking wheel bearings

[longhauler]

I took the Cruiser to the shop last weekend and when I asked them to repack the wheel bearings, the guy asked how many miles I had on it and I said around 10,000. He looked at me as if I was nuts he said they recommend doing them every 15 to 20,000 miles. I told him I didn't feel comfortable going that many miles before having it done. I told him just to make me feel better go ahead and do them. What do you guys think?

I also asked while they had the wheels off to check the torque on the bolts for the springs and axles and he said that they don't do that because it will cause more problems then it is worth? Didn't get that, but they would visually inspect them.

[Lloyd]

I think you did the right thing. You never know whats going on inside those brake drums unless you pull them. I probably do mine more often then that.
Hopefully they plan on putting new grease seals in.

When you get a few extra dollars, buy yourself a torque wrench. They really aren't that expensive. Then you have it for rechecking the lug nuts on the wheels, plus the u bolts.

If I've had my wheels off, I check the lug nuts in 50 mi. or less, and again in another 100 to 200 mi. Then periodically thru out the trip.

Just remember----don't use your torque wrench to "loosen", only to tighten.

[WildWildWest]

I don't think 10,000 miles is unreasonable. It allows for a good check to make sure things are all well. Which reminds me I really should do the wet bolt kit before summer on mine. 6,000 mile trip planned this summer then I will repack the hubs next winter.

[rv-rick]

Originally Posted by Lloyd

When you get a few extra dollars, buy yourself a torque wrench. They really aren't that expensive. Then you have it for rechecking the lug nuts on the wheels, plus the u bolts.

If I've had my wheels off, I check the lug nuts in 50 mi. or less, and again in another 100 to 200 mi. Then periodically thru out the trip.

Just remember----don't use your torque wrench to "loosen", only to tighten.

You can buy a decent torque wrench from Harbor Freight on sale for $10.00-12.00.
No, it's not a Craftsman, but it's more than adequate for torqueing lug nuts, etc.

[socoguy]

I think a lot of folks use 10,000 as a parameter for repacking and seal replacement. I think you made the right choice. Secondly not sure how a "visual" checks torque. I would take Lloyd's advice get a torque wrench and check for yourself.

[longhauler]

The shop called me today and said I did have a bad wheel bearing, glad I had them do it.

[LeBo]

Good catch on the wheel bearing.

[Tim D]

Originally Posted by longhauler

The shop called me today and said I did have a bad wheel bearing, glad I had them do it.

Piece of mind is worth something. I can see where under "warranty" they don't want to do anything extra. If you are a paying customer who are they to question. How long can it possibly take anyway? Should just be under customer service IMO. Good call.

[longhauler]

Just picked up the camper and they showed me the bearing it had 3 or 4 nicks in it making it so the bearing wouldn't turn smoothly. The bill was 288 bucks I'm guessing it would of been a lot more if it went out on the road far from home.

[bandb]

Hi Chris,

Lippert suggest 12 months or 12,000 miles whichever comes first. Don't try to do a repack by pumping grease in EZ lube zerks as you will most likely blow the seals. I blew a wheel bearing in New Mexico and it cost me almost $500.00 for parts and labor. There was a slight scoring of the axle and I had to have it replaced at Lippert. The cost for the axle beam and labor was probably close to $400.00. Do yourself a favor and follow Lippert's service instructions.

Bruce

[harley]

hey longhauler ...how come the bearing had 3 'nicks' in it ?? did they hit it as they were banging out the rear seal? if it was nicked from the factory ,back in 2009, it would have screwed up before the so called dealer took it apart. especially when he said that process was not necessary.did they replace the race also,cause that would be messed up also.... i have done my share of trailer bearings and if they were worn ,they would be loose not 'nicked'. just my opinion

[LeBo]

I inspect in spring and repack and give me a chance to look every thing over and sleep better when out,

[Lloyd]

Originally Posted by longhauler

Just picked up the camper and they showed me the bearing it had 3 or 4 nicks in it making it so the bearing wouldn't turn smoothly. The bill was 288 bucks I'm guessing it would of been a lot more if it went out on the road far from home.

Chris, is it possible the bearings were "pitted", not nicked?
I can't say as I have ever seen a bearing that was nicked. The steel in those rollers are just to hard to nick.

[longhauler]

Maybe I'm using the wrong "word" to describe the markings. Ill try to get a pic of the bearing to show what I'm talking about

[longhauler]

Tried getting some pics so you could see what I was talking about

[Lloyd]

Looks to me like they are pitted. More than likely caused by lack of maintenance and moisture.
Another reason for seasonal inspection.

[mark5w]

I agree with Lloyd. Looks like it is pitted. I believe in a yearly check up.