Posted by hogryder on October 08, 1999 at 14:39:52:
In Reply to: Re: Wheel bearing`s replaced at 4000 miles. posted by Frank on October 08, 1999 at 01:40:44:
If you wait until the bearing is noisy you've waited too long. A really bad bearing will cause uneven wear on your tire, poor cornering, etc. It also generates heat and will eventually lock up and dump you on your head.
The best way to check the bearings is visually. Another way is to raise the tire off the ground, loosen the belt (rear wheel) and try to "wiggle" the wheel from side to side. If there's any play at all, your bearing is shot. Not the greatest test, but it will show extreme wear. Also spin the wheel and listen for any noise coming from the bearing. Noise is bad.
The wheel bearing should be visually checked for wear every time you change the tire. At that time it should also be re-packed with grease or replaced, depending upon wear. A good mechanic will automatically check the bearing when he puts the tire on and will tell you if it's worn.
After 41,000 miles I would suggest you talk to your mechanic. He probably has been re-packing or changing your bearings when you take it in for routine maintenance. Mine does.