2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Wheel Bearing Replacement

[THoltz]

When should I have the wheel bearings replaced? I got about 80,000 miles now on my truck.

 

[SHobbs]

I don't have a 4wd but, my original front wheel bearings lasted 270k miles before they started making noise. In most cases you will know when they are going out when they start making any kind of noise and sometimes causing the tires to wear funny. You can lift the tire of the ground and spin it to see if there is any grinding noise.

Here is Timken's onlione catalog if needed,

Timken Online Parts Catalog

 

[JLandry]

Unless your truck is subjected to some rough service, I think you've got some time left.



I just replaced both of the unitized hubs on my truck at about 128,000 miles simply as a preventive measure. I wanted to do it at a time and place of my choosing rather then have one fail unexpectedly out in the middle of nowhere. I figured that many miles was enough because I've read about bearing failures starting about then.



Regards,



John L.

 

[Nyoest]

When should I have the wheel bearings replaced? I got about 80,000 miles now on my truck.

Front or rear?

The fronts are a single piece with the hubs made on, not a serviceable item other than replacement. There are many types of failure but usually there are indicators long before full out failure. ABS light coming on, seams in the road catching and pulling, tire wear and wander to name a few.



The rear bearings are serviceable and can be checked by jacking the truck up and using a long bar under the tire to check for play. Usually these bearings run hundreds of thousands of miles with no trouble



If you are worried checking this yourself take it in for a state motor vehicle inspection even if your not due. No shop worth their salt would pass a dodge with a bad hub and in Missouri this diagnosis will run $12.

 

[wlowe]

When should I have the wheel bearings replaced? I got about 80,000 miles now on my truck.

I just replaced my drivers side front hub bearing unit at 80,000 miles. I started noticing a grinding feeling in the front end while backing up and turning right. I jacked up the front end and everything was tight. I thought it might be brakes so I replaced the rotors and pads since they were due anyway, still had grinding. I did some research on the TDR and found that the grinding was most likely on the drivers side. I purchased/installed a new hub unit and now no grinding. So to answer your question, it's a toss of the dice on how long they will last. I would have them checked and watch/listen for any signs of failure.

 

[THoltz]

So far I have not noticed any of those signs, now I know what to watch for. I think I will go a while longer. Thanks very much guys.