Wheel Bearings

When changing wheel bearings it is always a good idea to check the condition of the hub sleeves where the bearing seals fit (especially If you have been 4WDriving). Over time, sand, grit, mud and water can enter under the seal, eventually chewing out the sealed hub, which leads to bearing failure by letting these contaminants into the bearing. A rule of thumb is: If you can feel grooves with your fingernail there the hub needs re‑sleeving. If the grooves are not too deep then a good clean up with emery paper will do the job.

The outer hubs front and rear, which is the cup of the CV joint on the front drive shaft and the axle on the rear, usually wear more than the inner hubs.

For re sleeving you have two choices: the cheapest method is fitting stainless steel sleeves called Speedy Sleeves over the worn hub. The more expensive option, which is more permanent, is getting a good machine shop to fit a thicker stainless sleeves by machining down the hub diameter. The cost is around $45 per hub against $25 per hub for the Speedy Sleeves.

You should attain good bearing life by checking on the condition of the hubs and always fitting new bearing seals when fitting new bearings.

David Martin SC180