Spindle bearings

[shadow88]

I searched this but didn't find my exact question, how can you tell if your spindle bearings are bad? I thought it was the manual lock out but after changing and cleaning two different ones I still have the same problem, my pass side lock out engages every now and then, there is play in the axle shaft behind the dust shield

 

[fdtrucks]

When you take them apart and clean them look for evidence of excess heat. Usually will show a blueish color in the area experiencing the excess heat on the race. Sometimes it will show on the bearings. If they are not rolling you will see scorching. Check the grease for metal shavings. Of course torque them properly.

After I lifted my Ranger and put larger wheels and tires on and used it as a daily driver during the week, and a toy on weekends. I noticed I had to re-torque them every couple months and replace them almost once a year. Even with the retaining ring that "wont let it back off", it would. But that was a case of adding a lot of extra unsprung weight to a small factory axle, then beating the crap out of it.

 

[brinker88]

Do you mean WHEEL bearings ( like the gentleman above is explaining? ) or SPINDLE bearings, as in the roller bearing pressed into the back of the spindle?

 

[shadow88]

No I'm talking about the spindle bearings, I changed the wheel bearings, whats happening is the axle shaft is sliding out and grabbing the lock out and making the hub click, only on the right side, I can pry on the axle right behind the dust shield and there's play, I'm guessing this is why the axle is sliding out and grabbing the lock out? Just wondering if anyone has had this happen or can tell me how much play is usaally in the axle at the spindle

 

[brinker88]

Broncograveyard has a complete kit (bearing, seal, and dust shield seal) available for dirt cheap.

http://broncograveyard.com/bronco/i-82006-dana-spicer-spindle-bearing-repair-kit.html

 

[fdtrucks]

I may or may not have been drinking last night...my bad

 

[cvar]

In my case, LF axle-shaft U-joint was partially seized, so the forced wobble wore out my spindle bearing. The excess play caused cornering clunks and spline grabbing, like worn wheel bearings. Sound familiar? I replaced U-joint, SB, and WB. They're dirt cheap. Easier to replace than WB. Now it's smooth and very little play.