How to Measure Trailer Axle Wheel Bearings & Grease Seals | Digital Caliper & Tape Measure Guide

How to Measure Trailer Axle Wheel Bearings & Grease Seals | Digital Caliper & Tape Measure Guide

Need to replace your trailer axle wheel bearings or grease seals but don’t know the exact size? In this video, we’ll show you how to accurately measure them using both a digital caliper and a tape measure so you get the right fit every time.

What You’ll Learn:
How to measure wheel bearing inner diameters for precise sizing and identification
How to read wheel bearing numbers
How to measure grease seals inner and outer diameter
The difference between using a digital caliper vs. tape measure
Common mistakes to avoid when measuring

The first step to identifying wheel bearings is to look for a part number on the bottom of the bearing. Once identified this can be used to find the correct replacement. If a number is not visible or has been worn away, measuring the bearings inner diameter is an alternative.

To measure a wheel bearings inner diameter a digital caliper or tape measure can be used. When using a digital caliper simply expand the jaws inside the bearing cone to get an accurate reading. When measuring using a tape measure a specific set of rules is to be followed.

When measuring a wheel bearings inner diameter using a tape measure, line up the one inch mark with the inner bearing wall instead of the front of the tape. This will allow for a mire precise and accurate measurement. Eyeball both sides as best you can for a correct inner diameter reading.

A grease seal can be identified with a part number shown on the seal itself as well. If this is not visible, one can simply take inner and outer diameter measurements instead. When using a caliper to find the outer diameter simply pinch the jaws around the outside of the seal for an accurate measurement.

To find the inner diameter of a grease seal using a digital caliper measure the part of the spindle that the seal fits over. This will allow for more accurate measurements as the rubber on the grease seal can wear over time.

When finding the inner and outer diameter of a grease seal using a tape measure simply measure the outside of the seal going from one end to the next making sure you tape is centered in the seal. When finding the inner diameter measure the part of the spindle that the seal fits over by eyeballing it as best you can.

Proper measurements are key to keeping your trailer running safely and smoothly. Watch now and make sure you get the right parts!

Need bearings or seals? Shop top-quality trailer parts at Blueswift Axles!

Timestamps
00:00 // Bearing Numbers
00:28 // Measuring a Bearing
01:53 // Measuring Grease Seals
03:06 // Using a Tape Measure

Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more trailer maintenance tips! #TrailerBearings #DIYTrailerRepair #BlueSwiftAxles