That's correct... But after sliding out the axle then there is a large nut that has to be removed to get the hub off to get to the bearings.

 

So, is it me, or does it seem a bit odd that these bearings "hum" that long before they really start sounding like a failure? Mine actually goes away up at 70MPH, and below about 35, but it sure feels like it is letting loose.

I somewhat wish it would go ahead and make some better noise.

Diagnosing is worse than the fix!

 

I'm still not completely convinced that the bearings is the source of the humming/moaning noise. I'm really not sure and that's why I have not done the bearing change yet.
So do you have any play at all on any of your wheels.
I only have the play at the right rear. It's a very small amount of play but it is there.

 

I am trying to get to it, but may not tonight, the natives are restless...

I had a bit during the rotation on the right front. Just barely moved, so little that when the wheel was off, I had trouble duplicating it without the leverage the wheel gives you. Didn't think much of it at the time, but now with the conversation, I am wondering exactly how much we can get away with.

 

maybe its the rearend? pinion bearings?

 

Finally getting a couple days to troubleshoot. Came home today and smelled brakes, and found the right rear had hung a bit. This happened once before. Not sure if a brake hang would do what this is, but sniffing into it.

Has anyone heard of a brake hang or resulting rotor warp doing this? I would think a warped rotor would show by some pulsing in the brake pedal, and I have exactly none of that.

 

Brakes have been known to seize due to the slide pins needing some attention or the way the pads are held against the rotor.

don't think it would cause the hum...but some grinding might occur as you start to get close to the rivits.

 

Did you ever come up with anything?

 

I actually had it in yesterday for a tire balance. The shop said two wheels didnt have any lead at all on board, and two had less than 1/2 oz total. They didnt place any weight on the outboard side of the wheel, but it did tone down my vibration a fair amount. Enough I think I will take it back and have them balance better if they can using weight wherever needed.

I am still not convinced it is fixed, but I think I am at least sniffing the right tree.