J H

I have an 85 vette with 170,000 miles. I don't believe the wheel bearings have ever been replaced. Am I living on "borrowed time?"or is there no need for concern? Everything seems tight and I am getting no noises. But, is it time for replacements?

vader86

Yeah, its time. U-joints too.

Youre lucky to make it this long.

Get Spicer U-joints ONLY.

engle1147

Spicer is nicer!

JAKE

Jack up the car. Grasp each wheel at 6:00/12:00 o'clock and push/pull. Then do the same thing with your hands at 9:00/3:00.

If the bearing(s) are bad you'll feel and see the wheel/tire rock.

Jake

J H

Thanks for the replies. The u-joints were replaced about 15,000 miles ago. Tha half-shaft joints were noisy and had to be replaced and the drive shaft joints were replaced when I had the transmission out for a rebuild.

Frizlefrak

Do what Jake says.

And if they aren't bad, why would you replace them? If you're that anxious to throw money away, I can certainly help you out.

Seriously, if you replaced every part on a C4 that "might fail", you'd have $150K into a car that's worth $6K. If everything feels tight and you have no symptoms, in all likelihood, the bearings are fine.

I agree the miles are high....and you will probably find wear and slop in them. But until you find out, keep your wallet stashed safely away. The previous owner may have replaced them (I'm assuming you haven't had the car since new).

I WOULD however take a serious look at your suspension bushings. If they've never been replaced, they are probably deteriorated and should be replaced. If they are worn or rotted, replacing them and getting a good 4 wheel alignment will really wake up the handling on your car.

J H

Well stated and well understood.

CorvetteMike2024

My rear bearings went first. They lasted 200,000+ miles. Still have origanals on front. 1989 vert.