A Guide to Removing and Installing Casters for Optimal Equipment Performance

In today’s fast-changing industries, the performance and mobility of equipment are essential. Casters and wheels play a key role in providing strong support and easy movement. They are necessary for smooth and efficient material handling and transportation.

If you are upgrading your industrial equipment, it is important to understand how to install caster wheels properly. Whether you are building a new trolley or replacing old wheels, safety should always be your top priority.

Removing a caster wheel from high-value machinery may seem straightforward, but it requires careful attention, particularly in critical fields like military and aerospace. This blog backed by Muvall’s expertise with a wide range of casters & wheels, gives you simple steps on how to take off caster wheels and install new ones. So, let us begin!

Why is secure caster wheel installation important?

Caster wheels are crucial components of any cart or trolley. They support the weight of the load and affect how easily the trolley moves. Proper installation is vital, not only to extend the life of the equipment but also to ensure the safety of workers and safeguard the items being transported. 

How to remove caster wheels and install new ones?

• Select the right caster wheels and axles:

Before you start with the installation, ensure you have the right industrial swivel wheels and axles for your needs. Think about things like how much weight the wheels need to support, the kind of surface the trolley will be used on and the material of the wheels.

Related: A Guide To Choosing the Right Industrial Trolley Wheels for Heavy Loads Outdoors

• Keep your tools ready:

Collect all the tools you will need for the installation, such as screwdrivers, wrenches and other equipment mentioned in the manufacturer’s guidelines. 

• Organize the work area:

Make sure the workspace is clean and clear of any obstacles. This will allow you to move the trolley and complete the installation safely.

• Place your equipment:

The next step in installing industrial swivel wheels is to properly set up your equipment. Before you start, make sure the machinery is in a stable and easy-to-reach location. Find a flat area where the equipment won’t move or tip over. Stability is crucial for safety during the installation of heavy duty swivel wheels. If necessary, lock the wheels to keep the trolley in place while you carry out the installation. 

Also, make sure there is enough space around the equipment so that you can access all sides easily. You will need room to move around and work efficiently while attaching the wheels. Properly positioning the equipment not only makes the installation easier but also helps ensure a safer and smoother process. This is the foundation for the rest of the installation steps. 

• Remove old wheels (if applicable):

When it is time to upgrade the caster wheels, removing the old wheels (if needed) is an important step. You will first need to take off any existing wheels from your equipment to install new caster wheels. Start by carefully tilting or lifting the equipment and making sure it is stable and secure.

It is important to have the right tools ready, like screwdrivers or wrenches that match the wheel fittings. If the old wheels are stuck or rusty, you can use penetrating oil to help loosen them. Let the oil sit for a short time to loosen the grip. If you feel resistance while unscrewing, do not force it- this can prevent damage to the equipment.

The goal is to safely remove the old wheels without causing any harm so your equipment is ready to be fitted with new caster wheels. Be sure to dispose of the old wheels responsibly.

• Attach the mounting plate:

Attaching the mounting plate is an important step to make sure your industrial swivel wheels work properly. The plate needs to be lined up correctly because it holds the wheels securely to your equipment. Start by aligning the plate with the pre-drilled holes or the marked area on your equipment.

Once it is lined up, use strong bolts or screws to tightly attach the plate. This step ensures that the caster wheels are fixed in place and gives your equipment a stable base for smooth movement and reliable performance. 

• Install new caster wheels and axles:

Installing the new heavy duty swivel wheels is the step where you restore movement to your equipment. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when installing the new trolley wheels and axles.

Line up each wheel with the mounting plate, making sure the holes match correctly. Use strong bolts or screws to fasten the wheels in place. Tighten them firmly, but be careful not to overtighten them, as this could damage the threads or the wheel. 

• Verify correct alignment:

Once the wheels are installed, check that they move and swivel smoothly. In other words, double-check that they are properly aligned and rotate smoothly without any wobbling or irregular movement. 

• Test the wheels:

Before using the trolley, perform a test run to make sure the wheels and axles are working properly. This is the final and most important step to ensure your industrial swivel wheels work properly. Test how stable and easy to move your equipment is by moving it around. Simply put, observe how the trolley moves with different loads and on various surfaces.

If you notice any stiffness or uneven movement, adjustments may be needed. This could involve re-aligning the heavy duty swivel wheel or adjusting the bolts to ensure the weight is evenly distributed. If everything moves smoothly, it means your industrial caster wheels are properly installed.

• Frequent maintenance:

To keep your equipment safe and in good working condition, make sure to regularly inspect and maintain the heavy duty swivel wheel and axles. Lubricate any moving parts when necessary and replace any damaged components as soon as possible.

Related: Industrial Trolley Wheels: How to Maintain Them to Ensure Longevity?

Conclusion

If you have any inquiries regarding caster wheel installation or need assistance selecting the right caster, feel free to reach out to us at Muvall. We offer a wide range of casters to choose from and can help you find the ideal caster wheels for your specific needs. Contact us today or use our website to explore the best options for your application!