Installation and Maintenance of Bearing Buddies: A Comprehensive Guide

Bearing Buddies are an essential component for protecting wheel bearings on trailers, campers, and other heavy-duty vehicles. They seal out contaminants, reduce friction, and extend bearing life. Proper installation and maintenance are crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Benefits of Bearing Buddies

• Prevents bearing failure: Studies by the National Trailer Dealers Association (NTDA) indicate that bearing failure accounts for 80% of trailer breakdowns.
• Reduces friction: Bearing Buddies lubricate bearings, minimizing wear and friction, and prolonging their life.
• Protects against contaminants: They shield bearings from dirt, water, and other debris that can cause corrosion and damage.
• Eliminates over-greasing: The controlled grease flow prevents excessive lubrication, which can impede bearing performance and attract contaminants.
• Extends tire life: Properly maintained bearings reduce tire wear and tread separation.

Step-by-Step Installation Procedure

Materials:

• Bearing Buddies
• High-quality marine grease
• Grease gun
• Socket wrench
• Dust cap

Procedure:

1. Clean the axle and bearing: Remove the dust cap and thoroughly clean the exposed bearing and axle with brake cleaner or degreaser.
2. Apply grease to the bearing: Pack the bearing cavity with marine grease using a grease gun.
3. Install the Bearing Buddy: Slide the Bearing Buddy onto the axle over the bearing. Ensure it fits snugly.
4. Secure the Bearing Buddy: Tighten the bolt on the Bearing Buddy using a socket wrench to the specified torque.
5. Fill the Bearing Buddy Reservoir: Use a grease gun to pump marine grease into the Bearing Buddy reservoir. Fill until grease exits the vent hole.
6. Reinstall the dust cap: Replace the dust cap to protect the Bearing Buddy and bearing from contaminants.

Maintenance and Inspection

• Regular greasing: Replenish the grease reservoir every 1,000-2,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
• Visual inspection: Check the Bearing Buddies periodically for any signs of damage, leaks, or corrosion.
• Thorough inspection: Every time you remove tires or perform brake inspections, thoroughly inspect the bearings, Bearing Buddies, and axles for wear and damage.

Troubleshooting

FAQs

Q: How often should I repack the bearings?
A: Every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.

Q: Can I use regular grease instead of marine grease?
A: No, marine grease is specially formulated to resist water and corrosion, which is essential for protecting bearings in wet environments.

Q: How much torque should I apply to the Bearing Buddy bolt?
A: Refer to the manufacturer's instructions, typically around 100-150 ft-lbs.

Call to Action

Maintaining your Bearing Buddies is crucial for the safety and longevity of your vehicle. By following these guidelines, you can ensure proper installation, regular maintenance, and timely troubleshooting. Protect your bearings and enjoy worry-free road travel.