maintenance — trailers
Wheel Hub Adjustment
Every time the wheel hub is removed and the bearings are
reassembled, follow the steps below to check the wheel
bearings for free running and adjust.
Turn the hub slowly, by hand, while tightening the spindle
nut until you can no longer turn the hub by hand.
Loosen the spindle nut just until you are able to turn it
(the spindle nut) by hand. Do not turn the hub while the
spindle nut is loose.
Install a new cotter pin through the spindle nut and axle.
Check the adjustments. Both the hub and the spindle nut
should be able to move freely (the spindle nut motion
will be limited by the cotter pin).
crawl under the trailer unless it is on firm
and level ground and resting on properly placed and
secured jackstands.
The possibility exists of the trailer falling thus causing
equipment damage and severe bodily harm even death!
When performing trailer inspection and maintenance
activities, you must jack up the trailer using jacks and
jackstands.
When jacking and using jackstands, place them so
as to clear wiring, brake lines, and suspension parts
(i.e., springs, torsion bars). Place jacks and jackstands
inside of the perimeter strip on the supporting structure
to which the axles are attached.
Leaf Suspension
The leaf suspension springs and associated components
(Figure 33) should be visually inspected every 6,000 miles
for signs of excessive wear, elongation of bolt holes, and
loosening of fasteners. Replace all damaged parts
(suspension) immediately.
Figure 33. Leaf Suspension Components
Improper weld repair will lead to early failure of the
trailer structure and can cause serious injury or death.
DO NOT repair cracked or broken welds unless you
have a certified welder perform the repair. If not, have
the welds repaired by your dealer.
If the trailer is involved in an accident, have it inspected
immediately by qualified personnel. In addition, the
trailer should be inspected annually for signs of wear
or deformations.
U-BOLT
LEAF
SUSPENSIO
TIE PLATE
AXLE
U-BOLT
LOCKING
NUT
FRONT
HANGER BOLT
FRONT
NUT
HANGER SUPPORT
BRACKET IS WELDED
TO FRAME
Worn or broken suspension parts can cause loss of
control, damage to equipment and severe bodily injury,
even death!
Check suspension regularly.
