Front Axle service wheel bearing question

[bodel]

Okay, I'm gearing up for a front axle service (first timer) and was wondering if it is a good idea to plan on replacing the bearings or just repacking. I have 142K on a 94 LC and it looks like the axle hasn't been serviced but that is just a guess based on leaking seals. I don't know the life expectancy of the wheel bearings or really how to inspect for wear that would indicate a replacement. I've been reading up on the FAQ posts on the front axle service for a while now and am in contact with cdan to get the parts I need. Any input is much appreciated, Thanks!

 

[landtank]

i replaced my front bearings because of a problem and they weren't the problem, the rears are still originals. The trucks came with 2 different bearings, Koyo and Timken. Mine are Timken from the factory and I replaced the fronts with Timkens bought at autozone for 25.00 per wheel. IMO the KOYOs are a complete waste of money at 100.00 per wheel.

I'd wait to see what they looked like and if they need to be replaced get the Timkens locally.

 

[informationjunky]

IMHO while your in there, replace them and keep the originals for trail backups.

 

[agomez]

if money is not a concern all new, do it once......

 

[Trunk Monkey]

I'd replace just to be safe. When you have the old ones out, soak them in gas to remove the grease and then look at the rollers. If you see scoring or pits, that's the best indicator for replacement.

 

[scottm]

According to the Timken online catalog http://www.timken.com/industries/automotive/autoaftermarket/timkencatalog/PartCatalog.aspx, these are the numbers for your bearings. You should be able to get them at any industrial bearing supply place. You need both the inner set (cup & cone), and the outer set. I'm not sure what the seal is. I used to have the steering knuckle specs, I'll have to dig around if you need them. I don't think you'll save much over Cdan's prices, and he does have dogs to feed.

Part Type Location Timken Part Number Qty Req.
Seal (Inner) 226285 1
Cone (Inner) JLM104948 2
Cup (Inner) JLM104910 2
Set (Outer) SET47 2

 

[Pair_of_Eees]

I did a first time front axle service myself on a 96 with similar mileage last fall and I replaced them. The ones that came out looked fine and I kept them as spares, but "while you're in there" I vote for replacing them. I feel better that I did and think you'll feel better too.

BTW, I used Timkens from Autozone...a true bargain!

 

[bodel]

Thanks for the quick response. I think I'll just go ahead and get it all at once and keep the originals for spares. Thanks again for the input.

 

[Romer]

I would replace the trunioun bearings (Knuckle) if they have never been done. I have done 3 axles jobs and reused the inner and outer bearings each time with no issues. They looked fine. The last one was on Sarah's Truck with 165K miles on it.

I would plan on reusing them.

 

[Tools R Us]

... You should be able to get them at any industrial bearing supply place. ...

Or you could source them from a mud supporter for a very fair price.

http://www.cruiseroutfitters.com/lockers.html

Front Wheel Bearing Kit
Each set comes complete with two wheel bearings, wheel seal and hub gasket. One required per side

Part# FAWB9097K - $45
Koyo Bearings
(Fits 90'-97' FJ/FZJ80 & LX450)

Part# FAWB9097T - $40
Timken Bearings
(Fits 90'-97' FJ/FZJ80 & LX450)

 

[Tools R Us]

I would replace the trunioun bearings (Knuckle) if they have never been done. I have done 3 axles jobs and reused the inner and outer bearings each time with no issues. They looked fine. The last one was on Sarah's Truck with 165K miles on it.

I would plan on reusing them.

I agree, the knuckle bearings take a big beating, replace at each service. The wheel bearings if properly maintained can last the life of the vehicle.