wheel bearings???

[carl111]

hi guys im new to the ranger scene but definately not new to 4wd. i just have a quick question. i picked up a 1999 ranger with ifs but w/o live axles. the front diff is missing completely along with anything else for the 4wd. i have no problem buying these components i just want to figure out what the deal is with the wheel bearings. as we all know they are a sealed unit on my truck and they have alot of play in them, but roll smooth and dont feel bad. my question is; do the cv axles hold the wheel bearings together preventing the play? any input is well appreciated. thanks in advance

Carl

 

[srteach]

On the 99, the axle is not what keeps the wheel bearings together. there is no nut to hold the axle in, just a small snap ring. The axles are there only to turn the hub.
If the hubs have "a lot of play", you should think about replacing them.

 

[carl111]

thanks. i will check into wheel bearing prices