I'm getting ready to start the DE/autox season with my E36 M3 w/92k miles. At a couple DEs last year there were participants whose weekends got cut short after wheel bearings started to go out. I do track my car quite a bit and don't want to forfeit half of my DE expense if one goes out on me. Is this something that gives you a little bit of warning before needing to be replaced? Easy enough to do at the track? Or should I have them replaced now rather than waiting for the inevitable? TIA

There's usually no real warning because they go bad over time. They are very tough to change at the track unless you have a good air gun or huge breaker bar and the appropriate very LARGE socket.

If you are going to replace them, go with the RRT bearings. They are OEM bearings rebuilt with a high quality synthetic grease for longer life.

There's usually no real warning because they go bad over time. They are very tough to change at the track unless you have a good air gun or huge breaker bar and the appropriate very LARGE socket.

If you are going to replace them, go with the RRT bearings. They are OEM bearings rebuilt with a high quality synthetic grease for longer life.

They use an SKF Bearing hub... :)

Mine gave me a warning. They started leaking grease around the edges of the dust cap because they were getting so hot. Also, in hind sight, they gradually started making noise. But, I didn't notice until it was gone with the new bearings. Another thing that may have been a tip off was the fact that I was cooking brake fluid. Again, because the bearings were getting so hot.

Jay

Perhaps this should be a preventative type item so you won't chance a race weekend. How much is a set of new bearings and is it really a DIY item?

on most race cars, I've heard once a season...for changing out the wheel bearings...

Perhaps this should be a preventative type item so you won't chance a race weekend. How much is a set of new bearings and is it really a DIY item?

Its pretty much DIY. I got the RRT bearings, but they are kinda pricey.

Thanks for all the input guys, I can always count on you guys coming through with good answers. I'll probably be calling RRT soon.

Its pretty much DIY. I got the RRT bearings, but they are kinda pricey.

whoa...RICH

Its pretty much DIY. I got the RRT bearings, but they are kinda pricey.


Some bearings are do it yourself, some of them require special tools. So not really a DIY in some cases. Too pricey? Not too bad considering how much longer they make the bearing last, and if you don't track your car they have a lifetime warranty. Remember, it sometimes isn't the price of the part but the price of installing it or having to fix it at the track when you are far far away from home. Just a thought.

Barry

front wheel bearings don't last as long as rears, but luckily they are far easier to replace. fronts are pretty simple actually. about $100 a side for the part.

Sounds like I should add replacing at least the front wheel bearings to my list of pre-season preventative maintenance.

What tools will I need to replace the front wheel bearings on my M Coupe (same assembly as E36 M3)?

Thanks.

Neil

air impact gun or long breaker bar
torq wrench that goes up to 240ftlbs
big socket (46mm i think for an e36)
two or three armed puller
small drift to lock the nut
all the various tools and sockets to get the caliper and bracket off


www.ultimategarage.com sells a nice wheel bearing kit that includes all the seals and nuts required. he also carries the needed socket. steve will take care of you.

and i am sure bimmerworld can hook you up for the same parts. highly recommend either source!!!