Bearing Buddies -- removing

[supton]

Not sure on right forum, don't see one just for trailers...

Bought a well-used popup camper. It came with bearing buddies on it. I jacked up one wheel, it spins ok but the bearing is more tight than I generally set it to (just a hair of play). Not sure on how old the tires are but I'm going to bet the bearings are original--and it's a 1995/6 trailer. So I'm guessing the wise thing to do is to pull and inspect.

But how do I remove the bearing buddies? They look to be hammered in. Grab with vise grips and yank? Or is there some smart way to do it that I'm not thinking about? I'm not planning to reinstall, btw.

 

[Eddie]

Usualy there is a small flange on the BB and you can use a puller to remove them.

 

[supton]

I saw a snap ring, but I'm not sure how much pressure is on the spring (spring loaded, to help push grease I guess). I didn't see any flange on the outside, just smooth for the plastic boot that covers it. But there is a lip from the snap ring.

 

[Boomer]

When I had the metal Bearing Buddies, they were hammered into place and held there by friction. I never tried to remove them once they were in. Is the bearing overheating? If the tires spins smoothhly, the bearings are probably fine and will continue to be so. If the bearing buddies were kept greased, they will push it into the bearing under pressure. If OK, let 'em alone.

 

[supton]

I lifted one wheel, and there's hardly any play in the wheel. Almost none, actually. Still need to check the other side. I did give it a good spin, it spun; but here's the thing: when it stops, after a few rotations that is, it stops. I'm used to almost any wheel giving a bit of a spin, with the heaviest location down. This wheel won't do that. I was kinda expecting that. No brakes on this traler, so there is nothing to slow it down.

Guess I could go buy a grease gun. Haven't had a need for one--at least not until now.

I think I'll try grabbing it with pliers, and rapping around the edges, maybe it'll work itself out w/o too much fuss.

 

[mechtech2]

It is smart to inspect a completely unknown system that is hidden from view. Now you can clean, adjust, and grease it. You'll be happy down the road!
Large Channel Lock pliers in a rocking motion should work to get it off. Of course, if you see a circlip or retainer, get that of first!

 

[GearJammer]

A few taps with a hammer on alternating sides has always got them loose for me. When you load them with grease just make sure you know where the overflow is so you don't get it everywhere.