Wheel bearings, ways to troubleshoot, intermittent?

[Peterofdevon]

Hi Guys,

Part of my 94's suspension issues may be the bearings. There is an on again-off again subtle vibration that's feels almost like a slight grinding vibration/noise. When it goes away the car is smooth as glass. It also goes away while firmly braking and is less noticeable at speeds over 50mph. For two days it was fine then today...the vibration returned.

Do bad bearings have intermittent symptoms?

How do you fully diagnose bad bearings?

Thanks!!!!

Peter of 3Qs

[elwesso]

what have you done to your brakes as of recent? Fresh rotors or pads?

[DrewQ45]

Hi Guys,

Part of my 94's suspension issues may be the bearings. There is an on again-off again subtle vibration that's feels almost like a slight grinding vibration/noise. When it goes away the car is smooth as glass. It also goes away while firmly braking and is less noticeable at speeds over 50mph. For two days it was fine then today...the vibration returned.

Do bad bearings have intermittent symptoms?

How do you fully diagnose bad bearings?

Thanks!!!!

Peter of 3Qs

With engine off and wheels pointing straight ahead...squat in front of the wheel and grab the tire with both hand spread at widest and opposite points on the tire. Rock the tire slightly...okay maybe you will need to rock the **** out of it (one hand pushes and the other pulls in tandem)..any play in the bearings will be felt as a subtle rocking/clunking. Good bearings will be stiff with no give...bad the opposite. Again, this will be very subtle so you must be tuned in to notice it.

....Drew...

[Q45tech]

Spin front tire by hand and listen with stethoscope, on rear let the engine do it under car in drive.

My latest project involves replacing both my front kingpins and their bearings as the front wheel bearings have already been replaced. Parts are < $80 per wheel.

302,000 miles. only the actual hubs, wheel flange, and abs ring and sensors remain as built in 1990 every other part replaced on the front even the calipers.