Rear axle bearing ?'s

[BuickMike]

Since I've got the drums apart I was thinking about doing some axle maintenance. I replaced the diff fluid about 15k miles ago, but what about the outer bearings? Do they ever need to be repacked? There is a little play in the axle. How do I know if the inner and outer bushings go bad??

Thanks!

 

[Red Regal T]

Please someone correct me if I'm wrong but I believe the bearings are lubricated by the differential fluid. I'd think if there was some problem, you'd hear it. If no suspicious noises, you should be good to go.

 

[pacecarta]

bearings are lubed by diff fluid

if the axle (wheel )has rotational play (up-down-side to side) then the outer bearings should be looked at as well as the axle bearing surface .

and they can make noise when the fail, a growling

if you have in out out play could be inner carrier bearing shims or the clips clips wearing down but most i check have some light in out play and run fine

 

[GANGSTER]

USUALLY IF THERE IS ANY EXCESS PLAY THE TELL TALE SIGN WILL BE A LEAKY AXLE SEAL AND GEAR LUBE IN THE BRAKES.
IF ITS NOT NOISY AND THE SEAL IS NOT LEAKING, ITS FINE.