Troubleshooting Noise Coming From Trailer Hub or Tire After Bump

Question:

I have a 14 ft enclosed arising trailer. Whenever I hit a bump I get a loud clicking sound coming from my right front hub or tire. The sound will continue for four or five seconds after hitting a bump. I replaced the wheel bearing but keep getting the same noise. I looked inside the hub but didn’t see anything out of the ordinary. The hangers are in good condition and I don’t see anything wrong with the axle. I have had the trailer for six years now and I have replaced the bearings and one hanger. What could be causing this noise?

asked by: Adam S

Expert Reply:

Since you hear a loud sound only after hitting a bump, it doesn't sound like a bearing issue or a hub issue. It sounds like a suspension or maybe even a tire issue. If it were a bearing, hub, spindle of brake issue, you would hear it at other times as well.

The hanger wouldn't cause any noise as it is fixed in place, so you will need to consider the axle hardware where the springs meet the spring seat welded to the axle, the leaf springs, the equalizer, and even the tires. If you have tires that have the balancing beads inside, the bead may even cause some noise. It sounds to me like there is a suspension component or hardware that is failing.

expert reply by: Jason S