Signs of Worn Out Trailer Wheel Hub Bearing

What are the symptoms indicating damage to the bearings of a wheel hub? The truth however is quite misleading. There is no single sign signifying damage to wheel bearings of a boat trailer. The symptoms vary in accordance with the severity of the event. What is even worse is the fact that sometimes it gets hard to identify the damage which means that in most cases trailer owners are unable to recognize the damage on time. 

Although noise is considered a key determinant for identifying bearing damage here are some other potential signs as well referring to bad wheel hubs: 

Clicking, snapping or popping 

This sound emanates as the outer portion of the CV joint gets damaged. Though, this can also relate to extreme bearing endplay which is associated with inadequate clamping. The noise shows up on sharp turns or while cornering. 

Knocking/clunking

Another sign of aggressive damage caused to the wheel hubs is when the U joint or the CV joint gets worn out. This also happens when there is extreme backlash among differential gears. However the sound may not be solely associated with damaged bearings and is normally detected during shifting of lanes or when the driver is quickly changing directions. 

Grinding 

The sound emanates indicating a potential damage to the wheel-end of a trailer. The sound commonly happens with bearings and may indicate raceway or roller damage. The sound pops up with load changes. 

Humming, growling or rumbling 

Exactly! The boat trailer may send out growing, rumbling or humming sounds which may indicate an issue with the electrical components, tire or drivetrain elements. In most cases trailer hubs send out a vibration sound especially when it is being driven in straight line. The sounds relate to a problem with the bearings and intensifies as the steering wheel is turned either to right or left. Rumbling on the other hand directs towards some kind of defect in hubs. 

Shimmy, shudder or vibration 

This sound is common even when the trailer is driven at constant speed. It can be due to damaged suspension or tires which may have slightly deviated from their normal balance. On the contrary, the sound may not always result from bearing damage. 

Wheel vibration 

The vibration can relate to damaged or worn out tires or if there is a misalignment of the chassis or suspension. As the sound occurs due to damaged bearings it can be straight away related to loss of a clamp or even a bearing indicating excessive damage. 

Unusual side pull

This problem indicates a defect with the calliper or the equalizer. Meanwhile it can also be a signal for worn out brakes and rotors. Trailer Accessories need maintenance in order to function well. Lack of maintenance can lead to sounds. People sometimes blame damaged bearings for excessive run out leading to impaired brake pads. 

Before an extreme and unlikely situation arises where the trailers starts making unusual sounds, you may require help from a professional to ensure that every component is well maintained and is in good condition. 

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Created on May 15th 2020 07:12. Viewed 285 times.

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