TR4/4A Here'a Another Rear Axle Hub Question/Problem

[KVH]

I removed one axle with the hub still on it. I'm inclined to just put it back in after installing a new axle seal. I was about to do the same on the other side of the car, but with the axle still I'm noticing that while spinning the hub flange plate there's a distinct clicking sound. Not screeching, or rusty or sticky, but click, click, as if from the bearing. So, guesswork as it may be, am I hearing something normal from the axle and hub, or is clicking a tell tale sign of a bad bearing? I suppose it might also just be something fallen in the small crack between hub and flange.

 

[TR3driver]

Hold the flange so the bearing is supporting the weight of the (vertical) shaft and try again. Should be perfectly smooth. If you can feel the click, it's likely the bearing.

 

[KVH]

Thx Randall, I'll try that and report back. It looks like Moss offers new hubs with studs for disc wheels. It seems that if the bearing is bad I ought to insist the shop yank it apart even if the old hub is damaged--at least that will help me decide whether to swap out the hubs for ones that will take disc wheels--unless my axle would also be damaged in the process.

 

[TR3driver]

Are the shafts the same as TR4? If so, I've got some spares. Only problem, I'm in IN and the shafts are in CA. But we might be able to work something out if you need them.

 

[KVH]

Thanks, Randall. I need an excuse to head out to CA when you're back anyway, so no rush. And I'll see if that local shop has any wise ideas.

 

[CJD]

"Clicking" is not a typical bearing failure sound. Rumbling while driving and signs of severe heating are. It is most unlikely that you caught it after it failed, but before it caused damage.

While it's not impossible...I bet it's something else.

 

[KVH]

I pulled the right side. The bearing housing has a lot of slop to it, but I'm guessing that's only because the shims do their work only when the unit is bolted back up. Still, I can move that housing about 1/8 inch in and out against the bearing. Also, that bearing is definitely clicking. I'll see if the hub can be pulled off.

 

[TR3driver]

Right, movement is normal, clicking is not.