How Much Play Should be In Trailer Axle Bearings

Question:

I have a suretrack 7x14 dump trailer with Dexter axles and a PandT 25 ft deckover with Freedom Axles. Both were bought new. I jacked both up and noticed the Freedom Axles have zero play at all on the bearings. The Dexter Axles on the right side of the Suretrac have no play either. The Dexters on the Left side of the dump trailer both have a small amount of play. Probably less than 1/16 of an inch. I use this trailer on a farm and make sharp turns loaded with dirt to maneuver it. Do I need to take the wheels off and retorque the bearings according to Dexters instructions or is that small amount of play ok. I cant find the answer online. Many say some play is necessary and some say there shouldnt be any play at all. Dexter didnt mention anything about play. How much play is acceptable? I also have a 16ft trailer with 3500 pound axles that have probably has 1/8 in play on all bearings. I suppose that one needs to be re torqued? Thanks

asked by: Jon T

Expert Reply:

Hey Jon, so trailer axles don't have as exact of tolerances as other things like vehicles. So realistically the play you found in all of your setups is probably fine. But if you are concerned there's no harm in double checking by redoing them.

expert reply by: Jameson C