Bearing evaluations

Hey all.....I am getting ready to order the stuff to rebuild my braking system and was wondering if there is a way to check the wheel bearings without riding the bike (I have heard that riding motorcycles without brakes and with a dry rotted back tire could be a life altering decision....lol). Or should I just bite the bullet and spend the money on the parts and the tool to make life easier when removing wheel bearings while I have the rear wheel off the bike and the front end torn apart anyway? Just for those that do not know, the bike sat under a tarp for 14 years outdoors. Click on the myspace link in my sig to see what I am working with. Thanks in advance =)

 

Look inside the bearings to see if there is any evidence of rust. If no rust or brownish looking area's look to see if there is any grease? If there is grease then repack the bearings and insert axle. While tire is on axle rotate slowly and listen for any crunchy noises and make sure that it rotates smoothly. If any hesitation or crunchy sounds, replace bearings.

Sean

 

You can jam a finger in the center of the bearing and rotate it first, and feel if there is any "crunchiness" or hesitation. Then proceed as above, and check AGAIN with the load of the wheel on it.

If you have ANY doubt replace the bearing(s) they are not very expensive.

 

sounds good =) will have to check them thi coming weekend as the daughter has a b-day shindig. Both the daughter and the fiance have already threatened my life if they catches me playing in the garage.