How To Replace Luggage Wheels

If your luggage has a broken wheel, you might want to throw it away.Replacing luggage wheels is easy in most cases.Any amateur repairman can replace a wheel if you know your luggage's brand and type.If you want to save money, try installing a replacement wheel instead of buying new luggage.

Step 1: If you want to replace your wheels, wipe them down.

Sometimes wheels don't work because they're caked with dirt.Make sure to clean with a damp cloth and look for anything that is wedged in the wheel to make sure it needs to be replaced.You may be able to find a solution to the problem by cleaning the wheels.As you replace the wheels, washing them will give you a clean surface to work with.

Step 2: You can turn your luggage upside down.

If you want your luggage to lie down evenly while you work on it, choose a table or countertop.If you flip your luggage, you can see the wheel while you work on it.Lie the luggage on the ground if you have to make an emergency replacement.

Step 3: Do you know if your luggage is screwed or riveted?

The luggage wheels are different.The riveted wheels are bolted on through the center, whereas the screws are attached to both sides.Knowing what type of wheels you have will help you find the right repair materials.

Step 4: Purchase a wheel that is the same size as the old one.

If it's the same type as the original wheel, your replacement wheel will work.Contact the manufacturer of your luggage wheel if you don't know what it is.Installation can be difficult if you buy the wrong sized wheel.Roller blade wheels can be used as an alternative to replacement wheels.You should look for roller blade wheels that are the same size as your old wheel.

Step 5: The wheel must be secured in place with screws.

The wheel needs to be inspected for screws.To remove screws from the wheel, use a screwdriver.If the screws are undamaged, you can use them if you need them.

Step 6: The wheel is secured to the luggage by a clip.

The only thing keeping the wheel from going to the luggage is a small metal clip on either side.Next to the screws, set the clips and bolts aside.The center of the wheel is where the clip should be.

Step 7: The old wheel should be removed and replaced with a new wheel.

Take the old wheel away.The new wheel should be put into the wheel well to be tested.You can put the wheel in the luggage if it feels secure.The hole left by the old wheel is called the wheel well.You may have chosen the wrong wheel size if the wheel feels tight or loose.

Step 8: Attach the wheel to the luggage.

Place the bolts on both sides of the wheel and slide the clip through to secure them.Use your screwdriver to tighten screws.If the luggage glides smoothly, you have replaced the wheel correctly.tighten the screws if the wheel feels wobbly.If it still feels wobbly or does not move, you may have chosen the wrong wheel size.

Step 9: Wear safety goggles and ear protection.

There are luggage wheels that need to be replaced.Before handling a hacksaw, you should wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.Ear plugs or noise-canceling headphones can be used if you have sensitive ears.The riveted luggage wheels are more difficult to replace.

Step 10: Sawed through the luggage rivet with a hacksaw.

You can slice through the luggage rivet with a hacksaw.Remove the old rivet and bearings from the wheel by using a screwdriver or your hands.The old luggage wheel should be removed as well.You can discard the wheel, unlike the bearings or washers.While installing the new wheel, set the bearing and washers aside.

Step 11: The old bearings should be put into the luggage wheel.

The luggage wheel has 1 bearing on it.As you install the wheel into the well, these will help keep it in place.

Step 12: The luggage has a new wheel in it.

The luggage wheel and bearing should be put into the wheel well with the replacement wheel.The washer should be placed on both sides of the screw.

Step 13: To test the new wheel, tighten the nut.

The new wheel needs to be secured with a nut at the end of the screw.To test its fit, move the luggage back and forth over the flat area.It's the right fit for your luggage if it glides smoothly.If the luggage is wobbly, tighten the nut more.If the wheel can't move or feels wobbly after being tightened, it may be the wrong size.