FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Q) What is the difference between “Bearing Buddies” and E-Z lube?

A) When the tem “Bearing Buddy” is used, it usually refers to a brand of
grease cap that covers the end of the spindle and has a grease fitting in the center. They insure adding grease to only the outer bearing. If the grease is improperly applied it may result in a ruptured spindle seal. No matter how safe you feel, you should always pull and repack your bearings on a regular basis. The E-Z lube hub has a grease fitting but it is part of the hub which has an orifice allowing grease to both the inner and outer bearings. It can be used to grease bearings after they are cleaned and reassembled. Regular pulling and repacking bearings is still necessary, but not as often when using the Bearing Buddies.

Q) What would cause a tire to get so hot it would smoke?

A) A tire could be rubbing on something, the brakes might be dragging, or
a bearing might be in bad shape. The smoke is coming from liquified grease, which means almost all lubricant is lost by then. If you continue to ride on it you may lose an axle, if you stop you might be able to save your spindle. With regular maintenance this can be prevented.

Q) How often should I repack my bearings?

A) Depending on the weight, load capacity,and frequency of use it should be about once a year or 10, 000 miles for a heavily loaded and used trailer, and about 2 years for a lightly loaded, and seldom used trailer. Your hubs should be warm enough to place your hand on them and leave it there. If it is too hot to do this, it is best to have it checked.

Q) How often should I check my lug nuts?

A) You should check your lug nuts for tightness every few months, and also within 20-50 miles of where you bought it. More than 50% of lost wheels occur within the first 115 miles of where it was purchased.

Q) Are surge brakes better than electric brakes?

A) Typical surge brake systems do not comply with the DOT regulations.
This is because there is no control of the brakes in the cab of the tow vehicle. Surge brakes are hydraulic brakes operated by a cylinder built into
the coupler that compresses as the tow vehicle stops. This system is nice,
but has 4 disadvantages: it costs more than an electrical brake system,
the cab has no manual control inside, more difficulty with backing up, and the cost may be two to three hundred dollars more per axle than electric systems. Surge brakes can be helpful if many other vehicles will be towing these trailers. Any vehicle containing a hitch may tow this trailer. Make sure you find out if surge brakes are illegal in your area before deciding upon these.

Q) Will I need a spare tire?

A) Most trailers do not come with a spare tire unless it is requested in
your options. It is a smart idea to always have a spare tire with you.
They can be mounted in or on your trailer.

Q) What spare parts or tools should I be carrying with my trailer?

A) Spare tire, 6 lug nuts, lug wrench, wheel chucks, spare set of
bearings, grease seals, grease, jack, magnet for electric brakes, a few pieces of 12 gauge wire, connectors, wire cutters, knife, road flares/
reflective triangle. This stuff may not always be used, but you should
be prepared for anything.

Q) Do trailers depreciate like cars do?

A) Depending on the type of trailer, and the quality. If you keep a good
quality trailer properly maintained it will hold its value.

Q) What should I do if I cant back my trailer up?

A) You can learn how to. PRACTICE makes perfect. ***it is interesting
the smallest trailers (4’-8’) are the hardest to back up***

Q) What about trailer warranties?

A) Trailer warranties range from 6 months to one year. Axles are often
covered for 5 years. Some even cover the frame structure for about 5
years.