Wheel Bearings

[desertdog]

I purchased a used 3402RL about 4 years ago. Its been a great RV for us. But I have not checked the wheel bearings ever. I figure its overdue. What's involved in checking/packing each of the axle bearings? Any suggestions would be great. Thanks in advance...

I believe I have all the tools jacks etc to do the job. Also planning on searching YouTube for related videos...

[Foldbak]

Originally Posted by desertdog

I purchased a used 3402RL about 4 years ago. Its been a great RV for us. But I have not checked the wheel bearings ever. I figure its overdue. What's involved in checking/packing each of the axle bearings? Any suggestions would be great. Thanks in advance...

I believe I have all the tools jacks etc to do the job. Also planning on searching YouTube for related videos...

Jack up and support, remove the tires, remove the calipers or drums, remove the rotor if disk, outer bearings will fall out, to remove the inner bearings you will need to remove the inner grease seals, remove the inner bearings, clean, inspect for blueing, wear ect. Repack and reinstall with new seals.
Replace the bearings and races if needed.

[rohrmann]

This is the Dexter approved bearing service procedure.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnH-h3W9XvI

This is the link to the Dexter axle service manual.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...T&opi=89978449

[Daryles]

While you have it apart, inspect the brakes carefully. Take pictures.

[AZ Traveler]

Rick,

Recommend packing the bearings and inspecting the brakes annually if drum brakes. With disk brakes you should be good to go 2 years depending on mileage.

[Jay Merritt]

Awhile back I read about service shops using a bearimg replacement kit that comes pre-greased. They said the kit was a bit more expensive, but was faster and cleaner to do the whole thing, than a simple repack.

Anyone hear of that kit for Dexter? That sounds like something I could do quickly and cleanly in an RV park.

[AZ Traveler]

Originally Posted by Jay Merritt

Awhile back I read about service shops using a bearimg replacement kit that comes pre-greased. They said the kit was a bit more expensive, but was faster and cleaner to do the whole thing, than a simple repack.

Anyone hear of that kit for Dexter? That sounds like something I could do quickly and cleanly in an RV park.

Jay,

When you install new bearings you should also change the races. Changing the races is more work than cleaning, inspecting and packing the original bearings.

[desertdog]

Thanks for all the information, I'm going to attempt to get all four done this weekend.

[LeftOverParts]

Besides the traditional way of packing bearings in your palm, found a tool like this helps to pack the bearings. You can check to see the old, then new grease come out each roller. Takes some pressing and rocking of the handle but it worked.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0B1M...4505EPYW&psc=1

This one that connects to a grease gun works similarly and actually has better reviews.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0931...5O08GT8E&psc=1

[RMcNeal]

That first one is the exact one I use. Works very well. It does take some pressing though.

[Daryles]

I like Lock & Lube with Lucas Red and Tacky grease.

LockNLube Universal Bearing Packer https://a.co/d/7Hjuu2D

LockNLube Heavy Duty Pistol-Grip Grease Gun. Includes our patented LockNLube® Grease Coupler (locks on, stays on, won't leak!) plus a high-quality 20" hose and in-line hose swivel. https://a.co/d/i6xvGgB

And the needle to get into small spaces
LockNLube Narrow Needle Dispenser https://a.co/d/gpV6t9l

[Foldbak]

I'm old school, a pair of latex gloves and hand packed. Something satisfying about it. Cleaner too, just strip the gloves off inside out and toss.

[LeftOverParts]

Definitely use and like the LockNLube coupling!

[77cruiser]

+

[432bartman]

An oil catch pan works great for using your favorite solvent or gas to clean the bearings. Remember to not use an air compressor to dry the bearings off. Just did mine

[Carl n Susan]

Originally Posted by 432bartman

....Remember to not use an air compressor to dry the bearings off....

OK I have ask as I don't know. Why not use air to help dry them?

[Foldbak]

I air dried 1000 bearings in my day. The only thing I would warn against is holding the bearing in an unprotected hand and spinning it with forced air at 5000 RPM. You can cut the hell out of yourself or blow up the bearing. Over spinning can damage the rollers. Gentle air, wear gloves and don't over spin it.

[77cruiser]

Ye don't need to blow on em like you are trying to kill em.

[Maddog]

Don’t know where you are, but made apt. before leaving bend Oregon. Les Schwab. Didn’t try selling me more than repackaged. Price better then camping world.

[glkids2]

Maybe I missed it but, DON'T jackup the axle! Jack up the frame and support the frame.