How to Grease the Bearings on My Trailer

Question:

I have a 2003 Coleman bayside elite with a breaking system. Im very stressed out about how to grease the ball bearings. Do you have a link to a video for step by step instructions. I just bought this camper and it is in excellent shape/ garage kept but they never have greased the ball bearings for the 13 years that they have owned it.

asked by: Ryan S

Expert Reply:

Greasing the bearings is actually a fairly easy process. It does take a little bit of time to complete, but after you are done you won't have to worry about greasing the bearings again for a few years. I do have some recommendations to help make this process a bit easier for you.

When it comes to packing the bearings with grease you do have a few different options. You can either do it by hand or you can use a grease packer. Although doing it by hand is definitely the most cost efficient way to go, if you plan on doing this more than once it might be easier just to use a grease packer. If your bearings have an outer diameter of 3-1/2 inches or less, I recommend using the Powerbuilt Deluxe Bearing Packer # ALL647646 since it is the neatest way to go. It keep the grease contained so you don't have to worry about getting grease everywhere. Another option for a packer, if your bearings have an outer diameter that is greater than 3-1/2 inches, is the Performance Tool Bearing Packer # PTW1218. This essentially works the same way as the Deluxe Bearing Packer but doesn't keep the grease as contained.

For grease I recommend using LubriMatic Lithium # L11315, along with the Performance Tools Grease Gun # PTW54290. If you decide to pack your bearings by hand it might be easier to use a Tub, like part # L11316, instead of the tube of grease.

I have attached some helpful articles and demonstration videos about how to grease bearings.