Trailer grease behind wheel

[mjgates]

I went to grease my bearings and take the the first trip with the family this morning and noticed a large amount of grease behind my tire. Not sure if it was pumping out the back while I was pumping it, or if it was already there. Attached are a couple pictures. If anyone has any idea of what it may be and hopefully something I can fix at home I would appreciate it. Maybe we can take first trip tomorrow.

 

[foodfisher]

Re: Trailer grease behind wheel

Too much pumping. Blown rear seal. Not a hard DIY. Hasn't stopped me from launching but I don't travel far. Real messy left if alone.

 

[oldjeep]

Re: Trailer grease behind wheel

If you pump too much in, that is where it goes. Not real good for the seals to really over do it.
Personally I'd take it apart, clean repack and replace the seals if you don't know the last time it was done.

What kind of grease are you using, - never seen marine grease that color before.

 

[TruckDrivingFool]

Re: Trailer grease behind wheel

It looks like the seal has been going since it looks like it's been slinging grease out onto the rim. That squeeze out looks chocolaty like it's gotten some moisture in it. I'd say its time to clean, inspect, repack the bearings, and replace the seal.

Definitely DIY if you have some basic tools and some mechanical ability. I'd think even a first timer can get it done in a day and you should be able to find parts locally. There's been many threads here on iboats about doing the job. A quick search and some reading should let you know if your up to the job.

 

[mjgates]

Re: Trailer grease behind wheel

Thanks for the reposenses. I'm going to replace the seal here. Doesn't look like it's too hard from what I have read. Only question I have is the seal I need for a EZ-Loader trailer. I can't find the size or part number anywhere. Local auto part stores don't know which it would be. All West Marine has is a Kit. I assume I just need the seal. Any idea what seal size EZ I would need? Or do I need to buy the Bearing kits?

 

[minuteman62-64]

Re: Trailer grease behind wheel

I pulled out my old seals, took them to a trailer supply place, and said "give me these." Can't remember if they looked at part numbers on the seals or just measured them.

If you can't get the seals out intact, just take the hub. You've got to pull it to do the job in any case.

 

[mjgates]

Re: Trailer grease behind wheel

Thanks Minuteman, That's a good idea. Sounds like it will be ok if I take it to the River tomorrow (20 minute drive), then replace them next week.

 

[oldjeep]

Re: Trailer grease behind wheel

Pull at least one all the way off so that you know if you need new bearings too.

 

[kjsAZ]

Re: Trailer grease behind wheel

Pull at least one all the way off so that you know if you need new bearings too.

+1! If the bearings look as old as the rest in the picture you'd be really better off to replace them. These kits with everything in it usually run in the $15 - $20 range and that's a lot cheaper than a blown bearing as they usually take a lot with them.
Make sure to check the spindle for wear and if there are marks use fine sand paper to get them smooth.