Hauling your boat back and forth to the lake every weekend or so can be a lot of fun and excitement. Many people take great care of their boats for making sure they are always ready to go on the water. However, while boats get a fair amount of attention, the trailers taking them to the lake usually do not get that kind of care and maintenance. If you want to make sure your boat trailer is always ready to go, follow these tips for providing the best care of your boat's wheel bearings.

Bearing Protectors Are A Good Investment 

Caring for your boat trailer's wheel bearings is vital for you to use it. Protecting your wheel's bearings from water damage is most important. When your wheel bearings suffer water damage, they form a rusty sludge on them, causing the metal on the bearings to rust and become sticky. If your wheel bearings are not moving smoothly, you will have trouble with the wheel rolling properly. You can purchase bearing protectors at most retailers selling boats and boat trailer accessories. Bearing protectors prevent water from reaching the bearings, allowing them greater chances to remain rust-free and provide more space for lubrication.

Lubrication Is Essential For Wheel Bearings

One of the most important aspects of boat trailer wheel bearing maintenance is making sure they remain lubricated at all times. Lubrication not only helps to repel moisture, it also keeps the bearing from rubbing against one another as metal on metal. If your wheel bearings rub against one another without lubrication, they will produce small pieces of metal that create an abrasion that will cause permanent damage. Using No.2 grade lubricant grease is best for your boat trailer's wheel bearings.

Why Wheel Bearing Maintenance Is Crucial

If you do not provide regular maintenance for your trailer's wheel bearings, they can cause the wheel to lock up during tow. If your trailer wheel locks up while you are pulling your boat to the lake, it could mean a serious accident out on the roadways. You not only risk your life, but the lives of others and you will more than likely cause serious damage to your boat and vehicle. You can prevent a lot of stress by taking the time to maintain your boat trailer's wheel bearings.

When you are ready to hit the lake for a day of water skiing or fishing, the last thing you want is a trailer you cannot use to haul your boat. If you are unsure about how to maintain your boat trailer's wheel bearings, taking your trailer to a mechanic that does (like AB Trailers) is important.