[circlepilot]

I just installed a new rear tire and valve stem on my 99 GL1500SE. I have inspected every square inch of the wheel assembly. (IAW the manual) Question: Would it be recommended to replace the wheel (axle) bearings, even though my bearings have no play, turn smooth with no resistance and with the normal feel of a sealed bearing? To the best of my knowledge the bearings have 76,000 miles of operation. The price of new bearings are not in question; it's the down time for ordering new ones and the chance of creating problems where none exist.
"If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
In my business, I do continue to reuse wheel bearings on aircraft wheels, if they pass inspection,(repack and install) however they can be removed, cleaned and examined.
Your comments will be greatly welcomed.
Norm

 

[circlepilot]

Bearing replacement.

Thanks for the replies. Now the bearings turn out to be the least of my concerns. I pulled the final drive and the drive shaft seal was not in place and there was dirt, crud and what ever in the shaft housing and the splines on the final drive end don't look right. I've got to review some more of the tutorials to make sure I don't have a problem. I'll try and post the findings. raying:
Norm