Packing Your Wheel Bearings Is Important for Good RV MaintenanceOne of the first real automotive jobs I learned to do was to pack wheel bearings. I was exceptionally proud of my accomplishment, even though I had two or three years before I would even be able to drive. Since then, I've been somewhat obsessed with proper bearing care.Many people ignore it. Now, if you're one of those people, maybe it's time to pay attention. Most mechanics recommend bearing maintenance every 12000 miles or once a year. Check your owner's manual for specific recommendations. The axles on your pull behind travel trailer or fifth wheel, or the steering axle of your motorhome, all need it. The steering axle of your rear wheel drive car, the rear axle of a front wheel drive car, and even the axle on a tow dolly…. All of these bearings require care. Here are the basics of packing wheel bearings on a trailer with drum brakes. • Jack up the axle and safely support it. Now you should be ready for packing and reassembly. • Inspect the bearing races in the hub and put a light coating of grease on them. These are just basic instructions. For complete step-by-step procedures, with pictures, get a manual for your specific vehicle. Clymer and Chilton have manual for most popular vehicles and a chassis manual for your motor home is usually available from the dealer. Instructions for trailers are available from the axle manufacturer. Packing wheel bearings is a dirty job. You might not do it yourself. But, knowing how to do it will help you appreciate what you are paying for on the line item "pack wheel bearing" on your work order at the shop. ---- Editor's note: My husband, Bob Nilles, wrote this article. He does most of the maintenance on all of our vehicles, including our motorhome, travel trailers, mini-vans, Suburban, utility trailers, and tow dolly. He also does most of the mechanical repairs on these vehicles, as well as on our tractor, mowers, and other implements with wheels and engines.
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