Cost of Repacking Wheel Bearings

[sfran]

Originally Posted by RedHorse1

While spinning the wheel I use large channel-lock pliers to tighten the nut to the point there is noticeable drag. Still turning I loosen the nut maybe 1/4 to 1/2 turn and re-tighten to a very gentle snug. I continue spinning to see if I think there is too much drag, if so I will loosen and gentle snug the nut till I’m satisfied. I don’t want to feel drag or looseness when done.
As long as I see no unusual wear, pitting or blue-ish areas (excessive heat) on the rollers or cups I’ll keep using what I have. When I replace the bearings I also replace the races (unless it’s a roadside repair). Still using the original China bearings but have a complete set of US made Timken replacement in my spares box.

+1, same as l have done for years

[ARMYG]

Hopefully for $300, the mechanics totally disassemble each axle, clean all old grease from everything, reassemble with new seals and use the proper grease.

[Arctic Bos'un]

Originally Posted by jlawley

I know from reading many posts that many of you repack you own wheel bearings. For those of you that pay a professional to repack your bearings, how much do you pay? I just dropped my trailer off at a local dealer to get it inspected, 4 tires mounted and balanced, and to have all four wheel bearings repacked. Just to repack the bearings is $300. Does this sound reasonable or too expensive? Thanks for your input.

I ha'e a preference for agriculture service shops such as those that deal with horse and livestock trailers when it comes to bearings, axels, and such. I'm simply just more comfortable with agriculture service providers. I don't get upsold. I avoid service delays. I use RV dealer for everything else that I don't do myself.

[Fumes21]

EZ Lube works great as long as you do it right and use the proper grease.

[jasum]

Originally Posted by timgarmon

Hopefully for $300, the mechanics totally disassemble each axle, clean all old grease from everything, reassemble with new seals and use the proper grease.

Don't count on it..............

[jbrnigan]

Originally Posted by Fumes21

EZ Lube works great as long as you do it right and use the proper grease.

I agree. I didn't know that most contributors to this post have them but don't use them.....Hmmmmm

[Isaacs]

Originally Posted by Donmystic1

Buy two sets of bearing buddies and carry a grease gun.
Never have to pay again

Bearing Buddies don't give the old grease any place to go unless you blow out the rear seal. I think their main purpose is to keep a positive pressure in the hubs of boat trailers so they don't take on water.

[jlawley]

Don't get me wrong. I wouldn't have a problem repacking my own bearings.
I've repacked many bearings on cars when I was in high school and more recently on the rear axle of my 1982 Dodge Rampage. I just don't have any way of safely removing any wheels from my trailer. I store my trailer in my driveway which is on a slope and I block the street whenever I'm hooked up to the tow vehicle.
Thank you for all the replies.

[Atlee]

It cost me $148 for two axles at Big Tex Trailers. Hopefully, they did a good job.