Re: Repacking Rear Axle Bearings

Posted by Jim On 2010/2/25 0:19:28

JP,

I am not sure of the climate you live in, but I have found in an arid hot environment the oil separates from the grease and drains through the metal shield. I never really encountered this in the cooler climates of the west coast of California, but have had a big taste of it here in good 115 degree Phoenix. If the bearing spins smooth, and feels lubed, then as O-D said, run it. If the bearing turns smooth, but feels suspiciously dry, I have actually taken a very sharp all and pierced a tiny hole through the metal shield ensuring that I don't hit the bearing or race. I have a grease needle adaptor that I put on the grease gun and pump grease through the tiny hole as I turn the bearing. This has worked very well.

I hope this has not added confusion to the list of options, and only mention because of personal experience with rear wheel bearings failing on various brand X club runs (hint - Ford) here in the good old desert at the most inopportune moments.