Front Wheel Bearing's Loose???

[Guest]

I noticed last night that there is a slight amount of play in my front wheel bearings, as indicated by grabbing the top and bottom of the tire and pushing the tire back and forth in opposite directions.

I'm looked over the tutorials on front wheel bearings, and no where does it mention how much top/bottom side-to-side play is "normal" for these bikes? The bearings are obviously not tapered, so is it "normal" for there to be a slight amount of this?? OR, do I have another small project on my hands...??

Bearing feel smooth and don't have any other indications that they are in need of replacing, though they are the originals with 23,000 on them...

Thanks,

[Nessism]

I've never checked the bearings like you did but it doesn't surprise me if there would be a smig of play, but not much. Might be a good idea to plan to change them at some point.

[spyug]

With fresh bearings there will be no discernable play IMHO so I think you do have another project on your hands.

Its not a difficuly job and something I always do on "new to me" bikes for peace of mind. I've experienced bearing failure in a car and I don't want to have it happen on a bike.

Good luck,
Spyug

[hampshirehog]

Ditto. You shouldn't have any play on those bearings. Before you pull things apart just make sure the wheel is tight. I've been asked to change bearings before and all I've done is tighten a wheel nut!

[Darin Jordan]

Ditto. You shouldn't have any play on those bearings. Before you pull things apart just make sure the wheel is tight. I've been asked to change bearings before and all I've done is tighten a wheel nut!

I loosened the Front Fork Axle holder nuts last night, and re-torqued the Front Axle Shaft nut, then tightened everything back down...

Looks like it's time to get online with Z1 and get some new bearings on the way!