2K Axle Bearing Preload?

[keflaman]

I put together an utility trailer from an old jetski trailer last February and have been using it around the local area for short trips hauling a few bags of gravel or sheets of drywall here and there. Nothing heavy so far. I used 3/16" diamond plate for the deck and put a Tractor Supply 2K lb axle under it.

View media item 5343
View media item 5342
I am now on the road heading to northern Wisconsin and found the wheel bearings loose during a pit stop this morning. I pulled the hubs apart and found the axle nuts slightly loose.

I turned the nut to the next castellation, installed the cotter pin and spun the wheel. There was the slightest indication of some drag, but the wheel spun a few revolutions with a hard push. With everything buttoned back up I set back out on the highway maintaining a steady 70-72 MPH.

One thing I noticed on subsequent checks was the wheel hubs were a little warm to the touch...not much, but noticeable nonetheless.

I am stopping in Michigan to visit with family and will have a couple days to play with it. I'm thinking of pulling everything apart, cleaning and inspecting for damage to the bearings and races just for peace of mind.

So the question I ask my dear garage brethern is: What is the proper preload procedure for these bearings?

 

[A_Pmech]

Slightly warm hubs is about right.

To adjust tapered roller bearings requires feel and practice. Spin the tire with one hand back and forth while snugging up the bearing retainer nut. You'll feel the bearings set. Stop spinning the wheel and back the nut off until slightly loose, then run forward until you feel the bearings starting to set, then forward to the first slot is generally sufficient.

You'll feel a definite torque rise as the bearings set.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

If the castellated on the nuts leave you the choice of too tight and too loose, leave them loose, they will run like that forever, but too tight, they won't last long at all.

Charles

 

[keflaman]

Thank you, Brothers!

 

[sberry]

Yes, a little loose is probably good. I tighten down, loosen and then turn tight with my fingers as tight as I can.

 

[keflaman]

Yes, a little loose is probably good. I tighten down, loosen and then turn tight with my fingers as tight as I can.

Cool. I stopped in at the Traverse City TSC this morning and picked up another set of cotter keys. If I have any problems I'll run over to your place and you can set them up. ;-)

 

[70redbee]

And don't forget to use plenty of grease to pack the bearings.

 

[sberry]

Actually it only takes a little, too much grease retains heat.