How to tell if front strut bearings are good?

[scot850]

I have a pair of used OE Volvo spring bearing plates that were part of a 'free' set of struts I was given. Mahority of the struts were junk, including the spring seats (OE Volvo and looked old).

The spring bearing plates are rusty, but could easily be cleaned and painted as a 'spare' set. But before spending time on this, how do I know if they are good. I have a new pair of OE strut bearings and tried comparing them by turning them as with the old ones. One of the used ones feels a little 'grittier' than the other, but otherwise they both seem to have no slop similar to the new ones.

So the question is, how do you know if they are actually toast and throw them out?

Neil.

[jimmy57]

I have only replaced those bearings once on a car where they fell apart while doing spring seats. I have never found a noise caused by them. They only turn maybe 50 degrees. I replaced the struts on my 04 V70R when it had 225K on it and the originals were fine. The car has ZERO suspension noise (R rough ride it does have).

[scot850]

Good to know jimmy57. Always appreciate your wise input. I'll stick them in the clean and paint pile!

Thanks,

Neil.