This article explains how to repack the bearings on a standard, non spindle-lube axle. As always, the article gives basic information and other sources should be consulted for a complete education on the process.

When it becomes necessary to repack your bearings, there are two methods available. The cleanest and easiest is to purchase a repack tool from your local parts store. The other method is the one my father used. It's the grease in palm method and I have used it for years. Most bearing repacker tools consist of two convex shaped plates on a threaded rod and has a zerk fitting. You mount the bearing and pump grease through the zerk fitting to repack it.
A much simpler and cheaper way is to put a nice dab of grease in the palm of one hand and grasp the bearing (with one finger thru it) with your other hand. Slap the grease with the bearing firmly. Rotate the whole bearing. You will see the old grease being pushed out as the new grease is forced in. After thoroughly repacking, place the bearing om a clean spot. Dirt is always the enemy. Even tiny amounts of particles will produce friction and cause failure somewhere down the line.

After repacking the inner and outer bearings, you need to prepare the hub for them. Just as important as keeping the bearings clean is to keep the hub clean. Start by using a clean rag to remove excess old grease and dirt. Next using a solvent spray such as carburetor cleaner, spray the interior of the hub until completely clean. Be sure to wear eye protectors and gloves. The next step is to lay the hub face down on a clean work surface. Generously coat the interior of the hub cavity. Be sure to coat the inner race. Now place the inner bearing into the rear of the hub. Match the shape of the bearing to the shape of the race. Don't install it backwards!

Now place a dollop of grease on top of the inner bearing. This is important because there is a small space between the bearing and the seal and this must be filled with grease.
Next place the seal face down on the hub bore and make sure it just tucks inside. Use a clean block of wood on top and pop it with a hammer to seat the seal flush with the edge of the bore. Turn the hub over and lubricate the interior of the hub with more grease.

You are all done and ready to reinstall the hub. We'll cover that in the next article.

Things you will need:

*low to medium viscosity grease (definitely not high viscosity!)

*carburetor cleaner

*small hammer

*gloves/safety goggles

*clean rags

*small block of wood

*bearing re-packer (if you prefer the cleaner method)

*clean place to work

For a more technical article on this subject visit this site and other good information visit here.

We at Longhorn hope this article provided you with useful information but it is not to be the " be all and end all" of trailer safety. Read up all the information you can and talk to experienced trailer owners for tips. Check with state governments transportation department and learn the laws, local ordinances for trailers and towing. If you found this article useful and own or manage a website, please link to it for the use of your visitors.
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Thanks,
W. H. Ingle (author)
The staff and management,
Longhorn Motors, Ltd