Download Bearing self study guide

The second maintenance schedule group includes bearings which must be
removed on a frequent basis. In wheel bearings packed with grease, for
example, the grease should be changed and the seals replaced at regular
intervals. The recommended practice is to repack the wheel bearings
in automobiles every 20,000-30,000 miles. Wheels in trucks, trailers,
farming and other vehicles may go for longer or shorter periods depending
on design and use. They should never run more than a year without
repacking. Remember, when the wheel bearings are repacked, the old
seals must be replaced.
Double checking installation and adjustment
In checking installation, compare your method with the steps detailed in
Chapter Eight. Do the same with bearing adjustment.
Check lubrication
Check lubrication levels so that friction, excess heat and corrosion are not
building up to bearing failure levels. Also, be sure lubrication levels have
not been exceeded, and that the lube specified for the job is the one being
used. This was detailed in Chapter Ten.
Cleaning the bearing
Finally, remove the bearing for inspection. Clean or replace them when
necessary, or according to manufacturer recommendations. Complete
bearing removal and cleaning were explained in Chapter Seven.
During your bearing maintenance procedures, you may spot problems
that can cause bearing failure or damage to the surrounding parts.
Troubleshooting – from spotting the problem to solving it – will be covered
in Chapter Twelve.
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