OK, I just got a Featherlite three horse GN trailer...1995, used. I am going to do the bearings/clean/repack. BUT, since I'm new to this Horse thingy, was curious if ya'll could tell me about the brakes. Specifically, they are electric and I'd like to clean the springs/pads/etc with brake cleaner. Can I clean the magnet as well? Any other maintenance I should do? I'm planning on pulling both inner and outer bearings, cleaning and inspecting, repacking them with a new grease seal and doing some general housekeeping on the rest of the wheel/brake assembly.
Posted 2008-01-01 9:58 PM (#73581 - in reply to #73566) Subject: RE: Trailer Wheel Maintenance
Expert
Posts: 1877 Location: NY
he only thing I can say is if you never done this before you should take it some place and let them show you how to do it ,the maintenance is very important to the safety of all
Posted 2008-01-01 10:28 PM (#73586 - in reply to #73566) Subject: RE: Trailer Wheel Maintenance
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
If you use a synthetic grease when you repack the bearings, you will extend the service life of the components. As you have indicated, install new grease seals to replace the original equipment. The brake cleaner will not hurt the magnets. Check the wiring while you have things apart along with the return springs.
If there is any grease on the brake shoes, it is not recommended that they be cleaned. It is better to change the shoes with new parts. If you put a dab of grease on each wheel stud before you install the lug nuts, it will lessen the rusting and give you a better torque setting when you reinstall the wheels.
While you are in the area, check the axle to frame mounting assemblies for security and rust issues. You can also check the integrity of the brake wiring harnesses going to the wheel backing plates. Make sure the water seals are intact.
It would also be a good time to inspect the bottom of the floor and the rest of the trailer frame. By taking care of your new trailer now, you can insure it will last many more trouble free years.
Posted 2008-01-02 9:27 AM (#73596 - in reply to #73566) Subject: RE: Trailer Wheel Maintenance
Member
Posts: 36 Location: Fl.
Thanks for the info. I've already gone through most of the trailer with a "fine tooth comb". Pressure cleaned, sanded to bare metal all steel on the trailer. Primed, repainted. All lights pulled, cleaned. All wiring checked. Lubed.....now for the wheels and she's "good as new". Just not many experts in my area who know ANYTHING about horse trailers....or trailers of any kind! Too many regular "mechanics" who say they'll work on it.....I know how that is.
Trailer Wheel Maintenance
OK, I just got a Featherlite three horse GN trailer...1995, used. I am going to do the bearings/clean/repack. BUT, since I'm new to this Horse thingy, was curious if ya'll could tell me about the brakes. Specifically, they are electric and I'd like to clean the springs/pads/etc with brake cleaner. Can I clean the magnet as well? Any other maintenance I should do? I'm planning on pulling both inner and outer bearings, cleaning and inspecting, repacking them with a new grease seal and doing some general housekeeping on the rest of the wheel/brake assembly.
