Replacing Wheel Bearings.

[Trevor]

I have noted many posts reporting the failure of wheel bearings only a short time after replacement.

Many years ago a very knowledgeable and experienced mechanic showed me how to repack a bearing. The important point he made was that the bearing must be packed with grease from only ONE side, pressing the grease through until it comes out the reverse side. When packed from both sides an airlock forms in the centre so that the grease does not penetrate fully.

I doubt that many modern mechanics are taught the basics of proper practical workmanship. He told me that at the technical school he attended in his youth they had a bearing which could be disassembled after greasing to illustrate the point and he therefore learned the lesson well.

This tip may assist those doing their own work ( these I hold in high regard having been there myself ) but also may enable others to oversee work being paid for !