Hub bearings

What is the best way to check hub bearings if they need replacement? Have 203000 on the clock, Just hearing a guess a humming sound, But not sure if its from tires or if they are the hub bearings. What am I looking for?


Thanks

 

Lift the front of the truck. Spin each wheel and feel for smoothness vs rough. Also grab the wheel at 12 and 6 and wiggle. If there’s any play, check to see if it’s the bearing or the ball joints. Wiggling the wheel while grabbing it at 3 and 9 will help distinguish the difference as well. There should be no perceptible play in the bearings. Very little, almost no perceptible play in the ball joints if any. Everything should be tight and smooth.

 

Sounds good, Just had all ball joints replaced a month ago, But will give it a check. Thanks

 

Grease them regularly and they last almost forever.

 

Yup every oil change.

 

Perfect, as long as you don't feel any play you're good to go.

 

If you find a bad hub bearing, you might consider the lock out hubs. Have had them on my truck for 80,000 mi. NO issues plus low range reverse on hard ground with the hubs disengaged.