P80 FWD front wheel bearing strange failure

Post by **abscate** » 14 Jul 2023, 06:49

Normally a bad bearing sounds like a whir whir whir

We replaced a wheel bearing today that a horrible screech on rolling to a stop. No whirring at speed or change on loading

It made a very similar sound to a bad brake shield rub or squeaky pads but louder and more annoying

The tip off diagnostic was the noise was identical rolling to a stop with or without braking

Replaced with a Schaeffler bearing and all was well.

Post by **scot850** » 14 Jul 2023, 10:12

Never heard of Schaeffler bearings. Clearly it seems to be a brand you are familiar with. I assume as you use them they are a quality part?

Neil.

850oldschool · Post by **850oldschool** » 14 Jul 2023, 10:35

Abscate has figured out a clever way to obfuscate "FAG" by referring to their parent company. We are impressed.

https://aftermarket.schaeffler.com/en/wheel-bearing

Post by **FireFox31** » 14 Jul 2023, 13:10

How did the failed bearing feel when turned in your hand, off the car? My slightly failed bearing felt pretty rough. I'm wondering if yours failed in some other odd way which wouldn't be felt by turning.

Post by **abscate** » 14 Jul 2023, 13:14

Felt like a new one. I’ve found it’s really tough to diagnose these mechanically.

WhatAmIDoing · Post by **WhatAmIDoing** » 14 Jul 2023, 21:14

My best guess there was one or a few rollers that developed a flat spot. At near zero speeds the rollers hang up and grind even flatter. And/Or some shmoo got into the bearing and was creating excess resistance on some rollers that couldn't be overcome at low speed. My recent selection of failed hubs sounded more like grinding brakes with negative pad life remaining than the classic growl.

Post by **FireFox31** » 16 Jul 2023, 13:14

Interesting idea about the roller flat spots. After installing my second used hub, I also moved the 7 year old rear tires with full tread to the front. Now I hear a high pitched whine with wheel speed. I assume it's the tires though the old 7 year old front tires with low tread were quiet. I don't think it's the hub though but will to the spin in Neutral test for resistance just in case.