1. OGT Knowledge Academy
  2. Maintenance, Repair, Troubleshooting, and Preventative Care

Independent Suspension & Wheel Hub Inspection

Wheel hubs must be inspected every 4 months

What is independent suspension?

Independent suspension is a broad category of suspension systems where each wheel can articulate independently of the other(s). This is in contrast to solid axle suspension where both wheels are part of one axle unit. Independent suspension allows for a smoother ride, adjustability, and higher ground clearance in the center of the trailer (due to the absence of an axle).

June-14-2023 Off Grid Trailers-51

How can I keep my suspension in good shape?

Wheel hub services are crucial to maintaining your trailer and keeping it in excellent shape. Due to the enhanced capability of our trailers, wheel bearings may see unusually rough conditions and wear compared to a more typical camping trailer. For this reason, it is key to be servicing the wheel bearings every 4 months and after every off road trip to ensure that they're properly greased, inspected, and free from dust & dirt. 

What should you do?

  • Use a high-quality high-temperature and pressure lithium-type grease with high viscosity and good consistency.
  • Check the bearings every 4 months. Hand pack the bearings fully and install (or reinstall) the bearings. 
  • Put some grease not only on the inside diameter of the seal but also on top of the metal spring in the groove because there is a possibility that the spring in the groove falls off without you noticing it.
  • Make sure the outside of the seal and its corresponding hole in the hub are clean before the seal is pressed in and seated. Replace it if necessary (Part #: GS-2250DL).
  • Remember that it has two faces. Use the correct face! Make sure it does not get damaged during tapping or pressing it in.
  • Clean the inside of the brake drum, the brake shoes, and the magnet. Use brake cleaner. There should be absolutely no grease on the shoes or on the inside surface of the drum!
  • Examine electrical wires as well. Ensure trailer brake wires are the correct gauge. Replace them if inadequate. Examine the ground connection; a bad one can cause the brake to work intermittently. Check the battery voltage and the amp at each magnet.

What should you NOT do?

  • Don't mix different grease types.
  • Don't use too much grease.
  • Don't fill the entire cavity with grease. 

 

For a complete bearing service kit visit:

https://www.southwestwheel.com/p-181-bearing-kit-for-42-spindle-6-hole-k42-6.aspx

Information on Brake installation: 

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