When it comes to the suspension system of your trailer, wheel bearings are one of the most important components, as they support the weight of the trailer on various terrains. 

Wheel bearings are subjected to thousands of revolutions over long distances, making them susceptible to wear and tear. Therefore, it is crucial to have a high-quality bearing system to ensure your safety and prevent any breakdowns during your trip. 

To make sure your wheel bearings are in top condition, it is important to inspect and adjust them regularly. In this CruisemasterClass, we will go through the process involved to inspect and adjust the wheel bearings on your trailer.

Cruisemasterclass Episode 7: Wheel Bearings

How to Inspect & Adjust Wheel Bearings

Regular inspection and adjustment of your wheel bearings is essential to keep your trailer in good operating condition. By following these steps, you can ensure that your wheel bearings are correctly adjusted and operational so you're ready for your next trip.

Step 1: Jack up the Trailer

The first step in inspecting your wheel bearings is to jack up your caravan or trailer arm safely. Make sure your trailer is on flat ground and secure, then use the jacking point on the arm to jack it up.

Step 2: Check for End Play

Next you will need to check for end play by feeling the hub of the wheel. If there is any end play you will hear an audible knock, this is a tell-tale sign it's time to adjust the bearings.

Step 3: Remove the Wheel

To adjust the bearings, you first need to remove the wheel from your caravan or trailer. After the wheel is off, you will have to remove the dust cap and split pin to give you access to the bearing.

Step 4: Adjust the Bearing

Now, to adjust the bearing tension you will need to hold the drum whilst tightening until you feel a bit of tension.

Then, back it off until the bearing is seated correctly. Next you will use the cross holes in the stub for finer adjustment, to ensure that there is no back play.

If you are struggling with this step, make sure to watch this section of the Cruisemasterclass.

Step 5: Secure the Bearing

Once you have adjusted the bearing tension, you will need to secure it by inserting a split pin through the castle nut and bend it over. We recommend using a new split pin for this application. 

At the Towing Performance Centre, after bending the split pin they cut off the second leg and put the dust cap then wheel back on.

Step 6: Check the Wheel Nuts

Before hitting the road, make sure to check the wheel nuts and tighten them as required to the correct torque.

Step 7: Repeat for Remaining Wheel Bearings

Repeat this process for the remaining wheel bearings to ensure they are all in correct working order.

How Often Should You Inspect Wheel Bearings?

Typically you should inspect your trailer wheel bearings every 10,000km or during regular servicing. If you are towing on particularly rough terrain or corrugations wheel bearings should be inspected more frequently.

Cruisemaster Wheel Bearings

We take pride in using quality bearings in our suspension systems, which is why we only use high-quality Japanese bearings. They are designed with high manufacturing tolerances and come with engineering grade hardened steel thrust washers that ensure maximum adjustment time out of the bearings. 

Moreover, the bearings are factory-greased using an automotive grade oil seal that has a rubber-coated metal case, providing better sealing potential between the seal and the drum to keep the oil inside the drum.

If your caravan or trailer is fitted with a Cruisemaster suspension system, replacement bearings are available through our store.  

If you are looking for more caravan and towing tips, make sure to keep an eye out for the latest episodes of our Cruisemasterclass series by subscribing to the Cruisemaster YouTube channel and following us on Facebook & Instagram.