Thanks for the tip, DLR; I just happen to have a needle. I used it before installing the bearing, but hadn't considered your method for routine maintenance. 

Rono, did the bearing fail all at once, or gradually? 

Should be good for another five thousand miles easy ...



Tedster,

One thing about you is your continuing ability to amaze me.

The LUBE CHART was shown to demonstrate that yes, old style wheel bearings need(ed) to be serviced on a regular basis. They are not present day sealed bearings where no service is required other than replacement when there is a failure.
Does anyone know the vendor/supplier of the bearings in the DISC BRAKE KIT? Are they like the BRAKE KITS that come through with CHI-COM MC's/valving? Why is it that no one seems to take into account water vapor/humidity and what it can do to a non-sealed component (also think brake fluid and lubrication oils)? What if the lubricant is not of good quality and will not adhere to where it should? What if they were not packed correctly? What if the lubricant breaks down from heat (especially disc brakes) and runs out of the hub and how much road dirt gets into the bearings because of a low quality seal and/or damaged grease cap? Bearing grease also dries out over a certain time period. That is why you service them on a regular basis.

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I've owned numerous foreign and domestic cars since 1971, none of which, with the exception of my 2015 Toyota Rav4 (probably has sealed bearings) ever had a wheel bearing failure, and all that I personally serviced when replacing pads/rotors, did not have sealed bearings, the last of which was a scruby Venture. I never greased wheel bearings when changing oil. I hold onto my cars for a long time, most of which having 200,000 + miles when replaced. However, I do live in a mild climate-no snow or salt.

Although I bought Wilwood Dynalite brakes from Dave when also buying the drop spindles, I don't think the one-piece rotors came from Wilwood. I'll look up the brand and post it, if anyone is interested. 

It's been my experience with 50-60's car that front wheel bearing failure reared it's head when chrome reversed wheel became popular especially on a non mentionable GM car with ball bearings. Timkien bearings held up better better but still need to be watched. The same problem can also happen with rears and very narrowed rears with tubs. When I bought 6" wide fronts from the original 5" I did check the offset to see if I would be needing more maintenance. 

56 Vic, B'Ville 200 MPH Club Member, So Cal.

Nobody is suggesting these are sealed bearings so I'm not sure what your point is. It is gratifying in any case, that I continue to meet or exceed your exacting standards

I'm simply pointing out that mileage alone isn't the whole story, and I agree with Dave, every 2 to 3 years would not be too often. Now at best, on a good day it's kind of a pain in the ass to perform this task, and it often gets ... "overlooked". Ask me how I know.
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You know I would suggest the damage to the OP spindle here (and bearings) was due to incorrect installation.

(If you really want to get picky on tapered wheel bearing installation, use a dial indicator).

Nobody does this, because "it takes too long" (supposedly) but that is how it's done if precision is desired. Tapered wheel bearings will last practically forever if they are installed correctly.

Most people (and customers especially) are pretty happy just so long as the spindle doesn't get smoked. A little "loose" is always better than a lot tight.

I've always tried to do my wheel bearing twice a year. Just before I put it in winter storage and shortly after I get it back out. A lot of people do not ever check them or grease them properly. Those small diameter bearings are turning some high RPMs.   



Y's guys rule!
Looking for McCullouch VS57 brackets and parts. Also looking for 28 Chrysler series 72 parts. And early Hemi parts.

MoonShadow, 292 w/McCulloch, 28 Chrysler Roadster, 354 Hemi)
Manchester, New Hampshire

Twice a year? I'm just slacking now.

Nobody is suggesting these are sealed bearings so I'm not sure what your point is.

That's the problem it seems. Your reading comprehension is not up to snuff. How did you relate sealed to what the subject tech is being discussed?

You know, this is my own fault. I need to mind my own business  ...

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I've been doing mine every 10,000 miles since I started working on cars in the 60's, never have had a failure. In the early 70's I bought a  little bench mounted bearing packer from JC Whitney, put the bearing in and use a grease gun to force the grease in, so much easier and more efficient then doing it by hand. One of the best tools I have bought..