General Procedures: Bearings: Inspect

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If any of the following conditions exist, install a new bearing.

Fig 1: Inspecting Bearing For Bent Cage

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Inspect the bearing for bent cage.
Inspect the bearings for galling (metal smears on the roller ends).
- Galling is caused by overheat, poor lubrication, or overload.
- If galling is found, install a new bearing and inspect the seals.
Fig 2: Inspecting Bearings For Galling
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Inspect the bearing for brinelling (surface indentations in the raceway).

Fig 3: Inspecting Bearing For Brinelling
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Inspect the bearing for cracked inner race.

Fig 4: Inspecting Bearing For Cracked Inner Race
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Inspect the bearing and raceway for etching.
- If etching is present, inspect the seals.
Fig 5: Inspecting Bearing & Raceway For Etching
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Inspect the bearing for heat discoloration (Dark Blue).
- If heat discoloration is evident, check the bearing and race for loss of temper. Draw a file across the component. If the file cuts the metal, there is a loss of temper.
Fig 6: Inspecting Bearing For Heat Discoloration
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Inspect the bearing for fatigue spalling (metal flaking).

Fig 7: Inspecting Bearing For Fatigue Spalling
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.