Wheel Bearing Problem

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Apr 9, 2015 | 06:34 AM

hughd

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Wheel Bearing Problem

Getting ready to replace the right front wheel bearing for the the third time in about three years. I wrote the first one off as a bad bearing. I was apparently wrong. Any ideas what I may be missing here?
Thank you, hughd
1996 F150

Wheel Bearing Problem

Apr 9, 2015 | 06:37 AM

krooser

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Joined: Aug 2002

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From: Central Wisconsin

Check the spindle for damage to the bearing surface. Replace the bearing and the races at the same time. Make sure the races are seated completely before you reassemble the hub. Use a high quality wheel bearing grease. And buy the best quality bearing you can find.

Apr 10, 2015 | 07:07 AM

hughd

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Thank you krooser.

Apr 10, 2015 | 07:49 AM

88F15095F150

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Joined: Apr 2012

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From: Minneapolis, MN

Did you make sure to properly pre-load the bearings? also what Krooser said.
Do you have loose steering components? a worn outer tie rod end or ball joint would put a little more stress on the wheel bearings as well.

Apr 10, 2015 | 08:57 AM

animator

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Joined: Aug 2003

Posts: 329

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From: Dallas, TX

What about it is failing? If it's heating up and weakening, use better or more bearing grease, and/or double check pre-load. Also, don't forget to pack the bearings with grease before install.

If they're getting contaminated and failing due to dirt/mud getting in, look at the inner seal and hub seal...

Apr 11, 2015 | 07:08 AM

hughd

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Thanks guys, I will be sure to check steering components, pre-load and seals.

Apr 11, 2015 | 07:25 PM

krooser

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Joined: Aug 2002

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From: Central Wisconsin

Three years ago my buddy was helping me with some suspension work on my R*m 1500. I had him replace all the front wheel bearings. Seemed to be OK.

A few thousand miles later I was changing the front tires when I heard the RF wheel bearing making a slight grinding sound. I pulled the rotor/hub to find my buddy never greased the wheels bearings… on either side! Not a drop of grease! I had him come over to take a peek… he swore he packed them full.

The amazing part was they were still in good condition… I replaced the RF outer since it had some color on it but the rest were fine… repacked them MYSELF and they have been OK since...