Craftsman 0220 - Manual (Page 48)


10.2.6 Tires
Before each tow, be sure the tire pressure is at the value indicated on the sidewall.
Tire pressure must be checked while the tire is cold. Do not check the tire pressure
immediately after towing the trailer. Allow at least three hours for a tire to cool, if
the trailer has been towed for as much as one mile. Replace the tire before towing
the trailer if the tire treads have less than 1/16 inch depth or the telltale bands are
visible.
A bubble, cut or bulge in a side wall can result in a tire blowout. Inspect both side
walls of each tire for any bubble, cut or bulge; and replace a damaged tire before
towing the trailer.
Tires do not wear evenly. Depending on the load balance, some will wear faster
than others. To help increase the life of your tires, rotate tires every 5000 miles.
10.2.7 Wheel Rims
If the trailer has been struck, or impacted, on or near the wheels, or if the trailer has
struck a curb, inspect the rims for damage (e.g., being out of round); and replace
any damaged wheel. Inspect the wheels for damage every year, even if no obvious
impact has occurred. Also check the tires to ensure they’re at the recommended
pressure.
10.2.8 Wheels, bearings and lug Nuts
To check your bearings, jack trailer and check wheels for side-to-side looseness.
If the wheels are loose, or spin with a wobble, the bearings must be serviced or
replaced.
Most trailer axles are built with sealed bearings that are not serviceable. Sealed
bearings must be replaced as complete units.
10.2.8.1 Unsealed bearings (Hubs)
You must inspect and lubricate the bearings once a year or every 12,000 miles to
insure safe operation of your trailer.
If a trailer wheel bearing is immersed in water, it must be replaced.
If your trailer has not been used for an extended amount of time, have the bearings
inspected and packed more frequently, at least every six months and prior to use.
Follow the steps below to disassemble and service the UNSEALED wheel
bearings.
WARNING
Worn, damaged or under-inflated tires can cause loss of control,
resulting in damage, serious injury and possibly death. Inspect
tires before each tow.