If you come across a suitcase with a broken wheel, you may be tempted to throw it away. But most of the time, changing the wheel is simple and convenient. As long as you know the brand of suitcase and type of wheels, any amateur repairman can replace it. Instead of buying a new suitcase, try changing the wheels. It's easy and affordable!
Methods 1 Be prepared to change the wheels
1.Wipe the wheels clean before replacing them.
Sometimes the wheels don't work well just because they get stuck in dirt or debris. Clean the wheel with a damp cloth to see if anything is stuck in the wheel and then determine if it needs to be replaced. After thoroughly cleaning the wheels and getting rid of the stuck stuff, the problem is likely to be solved.
Cleaning the wheels also makes it easier to clean the surface of the box when replacing it later.
2. Place the suitcase upside down on a flat surface.
Find a flat spot where you can smoothly place your suitcase for work behind you -- a desk or countertop is good. Turn your suitcase upside down with the wheels up so you can see better when replacing it.
If you're out and about but have to replace it in an emergency, just leave your suitcase on the ground.
3. Determine whether the suitcase is secured with screws or rivets.
Screw and rivet fixed suitcase, they change the wheel method is different. The screw wheels are connected by small screws on both sides, while the rivet wheels are held in place by bolts in the middle.
Know the type of wheel so you can buy the right repair material.
4.Buy wheels the same size and brand as the old ones.
If it is the same type as the original wheel, the replacement will fit better and be smoother to use. If you're not sure what type of wheel you want, consult the manufacturer.
If you buy the wrong size wheel, it will not fit, or the box will tilt.
You can also use a roller instead of a wheel. Look for a wheel about the same size as the old one.
Mothods 2 Replace the wheel with screws
1. Loosen the screws holding the wheel. Check the screws on the wheel.
Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold them in place. If the screws aren't damaged, set them aside -- the new wheel may come with screws, but you can use the original screws if necessary.
2. Pull out the clamp that holds the wheel in place.
After unscrewing the screws on the suitcase, there is also a small metal wheel clip attached to the bolts on either side. Pull out the wheel clamp and bolt and place them next to the screw.
The wheel clamp should be located in the center of the wheel.
3. Take out the old wheels and replace them with new ones.
Take off the old wheel and throw it away. Put the new wheel in the wheel hole and test the position. When you feel it in place, you can attach the wheels to the suitcase.
The wheel hole is the hole left after removing the old wheel.
If the wheels feel too tight or too loose, it's probably because the wheels are the wrong size.
4.Clamp the wheels and screw them to the suitcase.
Place the bolts on each side of the wheel and place the clamp through the wheel to secure it. Use a screwdriver to turn all the screws back on. Slide the trunk back and forth to see if the new wheels work. If they slide smoothly, the replacement is successful.
If you feel the wheel wobble, try tightening the screws. If it still wobbles or doesn't turn, you may have chosen the wrong size wheel.
Mothods 2 Replace the riveted wheel
1. Wear goggles and ear protection.
Use a hacksaw to replace a riveted wheel. Before use, wear goggles to protect your eyes. If you have sensitive ears, wear earplugs or noise-canceling headphones.
Of the two types of wheels, the riveted wheel is more difficult to replace than the screw wheel.
2. Use a hacksaw to cut through the rivets on the suitcase.
Cut off one end of the rivet with a hacksaw. Use a screwdriver or direct hand to separate the old rivet from the bearing or gasket used to hold it in place.
Take the old suitcase wheel out of the wheel hole. Keep the bearings or washers, and the wheels can be thrown away.
Set aside bearings and washers for use when installing new wheels.
3.Put the original bearings in the new suitcase wheel.
Each wheel is fitted with a bearing. This will hold the wheel in place while it is fitted into the wheel hole.
4. Put the new wheels in the suitcase.
Insert the replacement wheel into the wheel hole and insert a screw about 5cm between the wheel and the bearing. A washer is placed at each end of the screw to hold it in place.
5. Tighten the nut and try the new wheel.
Screw the nut into one end of the screw to secure the new wheel. Try the effect by sliding the suitcase back and forth on a flat area. If the suitcase slides smoothly, it's just right.
If the suitcase is shaking a little, try tightening the nut a little. If the wheel doesn't turn or still wobbles after tightening, it's probably the wrong size.
Note: Suitcases should not be too full in case the wheels have to be replaced soon.
The tools you need to prepare
Replace the wheel with screws
-screw
-The screwdriver
-Wheel clamp
-bolt
-Replacement wheel
Replace the riveted wheel
-goggles
-Earplugs or noise-canceling ears
-hacksaw
-screw
-nut
-Replacement wheel