Rear wheel bearings

[xit]

Thinking about replacing my rear wheel bearings, what brand do you recommend? I will also be using a synthetic gear oil, any better than others?


Thanks for any input

[paulbot]

Are your bearings bad? I've spent most of this evening going over old threads, consensus seems bearings don't seem to fail often unless run dry.

I've been running Valvoline synthetic, 2000 RWD with 170K hard miles. No issues save for axle seals are leaking now. I had them replaced at 120K before moving out to the country. At the same time he had changed the rear end oil, seals, u-joints, transmission service, motor mounts, and brake job. Getting off topic, but I'm looking to do the same, change out gear oil and axle seals. This will be be the 3rd gear oil change

Curious as to what axle seals are good also, apparently the ones I have are junk. IIRC, I had ordered some from Rock Auto, but the mechanic said they weren't right.

[swharris]

During my rear end swap I ended up replacing mine. I forgot who made them, but they were from O'Riley and I was very surprised to see them stamped made in USA(if that makes any difference now days). Remember to check the condition of the of the axle shafts. They should be smooth where the rollers run. They are in essence the inside races for the bearings. The shafts roll directly on the bearing rollers. If the bearing rollers are bad(pitted) the shafts will be also and will need to be replaced.

[crusader1xxx]

There are a couple of really good threads on doing this service. If you get the chance you should read them, then again you may have already,

viewtopic.php?f=108&t=11827

Just one other point, make sure you can get the fill plug out first, other wise you will have a very difficult time refilling the diff if you don't.

[swharris]

Important thing to remember is that the AXLE SHAFT IS the inner bearing race. Your axle shafts must be smooth and un-pitted at the point they contact the roller bearing or the bearings will go bad again. You'll need a puller to get the bearing out of the axle tube. Easy job other wise. Notice the shiny part of the shaft. It's where the bearing rides. Must be smooth with no pitting.