Wheel Bearing/ Spindle Bearing??

[gary2232]

I did a search of past posts and now I am confused! I have new wheel bearings both inner and outer. Is that also Spindle Bearings?? Or is there another bearing in there and If so is it in the axle housing?? Where is the spindle bearing and how do I check it for wear??? 1972 1/2 ton chevy 4x4 disc brakes. Thanks

[jerry moss]

the spindle bearing is inside the spindle, take the 6 nuts off and pull the spindle off the knuckle. you'll see the bearing in the rear of the hole.

[LONGHAIR]

Originally Posted by jerry moss

take the 6 nuts off and pull the spindle off the knuckle.

It's only a dozen words.....but it can be a real bear to get it apart. It really should be done though. These inner bearings are often ignored and not proberly maintained, partly because it is so tough. Once it has been apart, cleaned-up it's not as bad. A little anti-seize on the connecting parts is a good idea too.

[Burt4x4]

Yup, there is a spindel bearing replacement kit you can get that comes with the thrust washer and rubber seal, plus a new bearing.
I good deadblow hammer works geat for rappin on the spindel to bust it loose. Rotate your blows from one side to the other and you will see it began to break free.
To get the old bearing out I made a long punch. Took a 10" bolt and ground the tip like a flat head screw driver then from the opposite side, slide the bolt in making cotact with the bearing and RAP RAP it right out with a hammer.
I used wheelbering greese on the new one.
The kit # is 706527X Spicer ( I had the number handy) This was the kit for my 1972 D44 front.

[gary2232]

Wow Thanks Guys. This is good info. I have it all apart now down to removing spindle. I am ordering parts today. Thanks Again for the replys.

[chalet2506]

might as well check your axle u joints while you're that far into it. I just redid both front outers on my '72 D44 and the u-joints that were in there were pretty dang old, if not original.

[gary2232]

Well this whole project started with a simple front brake pad replacement, then turn rotors,wheel bearing,spindle bears now U joints. Andyou are wright I will. All in all it is not costing much turn rotors 30.00 wheel bearing 60.00 spindle 15.00 pads i had so what the heck u joints next. Should be easy enough?? What dose D44 refer to??

[chalet2506]

Short for the Dana 44 that is under the front of my 72 Jimmy - it should be the same front axle you have. Isn't it funny how every little project on these trucks snowballs into an overhaul.