Question: Rear wheel bearings

[Dunzvett81]

Hi guys, Have a question about rear wheel bearings. If I take the tire at the 12 and 6 position there is movement in the wheel. I thinks this is bearings. Is there anyway to adjust these or replace without replacing the whole wheel assembly?? thanks.

 

[Curtis]

IF your wheel bearing setup is the same as my 76, then they are serviceable.. It is a tough tedious job to do it yourself as I know from experience. You can take it all apart and replace the bearings. Grab one of the repair manuals for you car and read it before you start. You may need a special puller , a spindle knocker and bearing set up tool. All the play in the bearings is set using different thickness shims and measured with a dial indicator. I would do it again myself if needed because the cost of the special tools is less than the cost of shop labor, however it may be worthwhile to you to purchase what you need preassembled. Measure the movement you have at the hub with a dial indicator before you tear it apart. It may not be out of spec as the movement is exaggerated the further you get out on the wheel.

 

[TimAT]

I would look at a couple of other things too. First when you move the tire/wheel look at where the half-shaft goes into the differential- if the ends of the yokes are worn you will get movement in the wheel as you describe. Next look a the bushings on the rear struts. If they are worn out that could be another place for excess motion.

 

[Sensei]

I replaced the rear bearings on one side of mine and it was a PAIN! Let me rebuild an electronic Quadrajet or install an engine or transmission any day. I did not have the proper measurement tools to set the end play, so I just put in the new bearings with the same shims etc. that came off. This aproach will work with a lot of things, but in this case, it only lasted about six months. Now, for $150 in labor, I let a local drive line shop deal with those.

God bless, Sensei

 

[6880 Mike]

Some movement is okay. A lot of movement is not okay. What do you have...a little or a lot? Having brake problems? Excessive play in the rear bearings will usually cause brake problems. Have you checked rear run out?

 

[Peer81]

I think the best way to check your wheel bearing is if you trailingarm is unable to move. Besides that if you can feel the bearing move then you can replace it or wait a few months or years and then replace it. But a broken bearing could distoy more things then just the bearingcap.

I've replaced my own. You need some stuff to do it and if you're not into collecting tools then your better off with a shop.

Groeten Peter

 

[Dunzvett81]

Thanks for all the comments and suggestions. The run out is okay and brakes are good. The yokes are also good. I would say that there is probably about 1/4 inch of play when tire is on and 1/16 to 1/8 inch play when tire is off. I like Sensei's idea of taking it to a good shop. I am good with motors and electronics but not so when it comes to rear ends (cars that is!!)
thanks lads