How do I determine if I have a bad rear wheel bearing?
I have what sounds just like a front bearing noise with a vibration at speed. (feels almost like a buzzing) I know its the passenger side because if I unload it while going down the road it goes away. I just put new front bearings on that side however and the wheel feels tight and rolls smoothly. So I either got a bad Autocrap replacement bearing or that wasnt the problem. There doesnt seem to be any excessive play in the back axle either. Suggestions?
Thanks
Roy

 

you don't really have any rear wheel bearings. you have a bearing at the flange end of each axle and a carrier bearing on each side of the carrier and a front and rear bearing on the pinion. easiest way to tell if there is a problem is to take them out and do a visual inspection.

 

Ede, I was referring to the rear outer bearing at the flange. I think I answered my own question though. I took it for about a 15 minute ride, then felt both rear wheels as soon as I pulled in. One hot, one cool. Problem found.
Roy

 

If the bearings on a drive axel you can also run the car with the wheels in the air and listen to the bearing with a screwdriver or stethascope.