Boat trailer maintenance : bearings and lubrication
Maintaining a boat trailer is crucial to guaranteeing its longevity. One of the most important aspects is the choice of bearings and the right type of lubrication.
Bearings play an essential role in the mobility and stability of your trailer. They allow the wheels to turn freely and support the weight of the trailer and boat. However, exposure to water and iodine in marine environments can accelerate bearing wear. That's why it's important to choose the right bearings and lubrication to preserve your trailer's parts for as long as possible
Types of bearings for boat trailers
It's imperative to use sealed bearings designed to withstand marine conditions. Here are the recommended types:
- Sealed ball bearings : ideal for medium-sized trailers. These bearings are sealed to prevent water and contaminants from entering, offering long-lasting protection against wear due to exposure to salt water. We recommend that you choose generic brand bearings.
- Tapered roller bearings : Although not intrinsically sealed, they offer high load carrying capacity and durability. For optimum protection, it is crucial to use additional protection such as sealed hub caps to prevent the ingress of water and contaminants.
Bearing lubrication
Proper lubrication is essential for the smooth running of bearings. Here are the recommended types of grease:
- Marine grease : Formulated to resist salt water and corrosion, this grease is indispensable for boat trailer bearings. It provides long-lasting protection against water and contaminants, ensuring optimum protection against salt water and corrosion. Apply this grease generously to ensure complete coverage.
- Automatic grease nipples : These devices can be installed on your trailer to provide a constant flow of grease to the bearings, ensuring continuous, effortless lubrication. They are particularly useful for regular users of boat trailers.
Maintenance tips
- Regular inspection : Check bearings every six months for wear or damage.
- Cleaning : Clean bearings before each new application of grease to remove contaminants.
- Replacement : Replace bearings at the first sign of excessive wear or damage.
By following these maintenance tips and using the quality products available from 123Bearing, you can extend the life of your boat trailer and ensure safe travel.
By caring for your sealed bearings and using the right greases, you can ensure the performance and longevity of your boat trailer.
Don't hesitate to consult 123Bearing for all your bearing and greasing needs.