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1997 Volkswagen Jetta

Question: front wheel bearing replaced still problems

Question

Houston1970, 2.0L 4 Cylinder, Switzer, WV, February 28, 2011, 18:24
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Replaced front wheel bearings and hub, but still have play in up and down movement in wheel,could this be the axle?

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  • Answer #1

    patrick mannion from Greg Solow's Engine Room, February 28, 2011, 18:33
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    Wheel bearing play will be noticeable if you grab the tire at 12:00/6:00 o'clock and at 3:00/9:00 o'clock, the play will be the same amount. Grabbing wheel at 3:00/9:00 if there is play but not when you grab at 12/6 it would be steering rack end or tie rod end. You wont feel axle play moving the wheel. Check the torque of the axle nut, make sure bearing is installed correctly.

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  • Answer #2

    mastertech6371 February 28, 2011, 20:05
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    to add to Pat, if you are referring to up and down play, the vw is common for upper strut mounts. they ear out often and need to be replaced. i suggest replacing the struts along with the job.

    Roy

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    Houston1970, February 28, 2011, 20:25
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    Hey, I replaced the struts, yes there is about 2mm movement at 12/6 and the same at 3/9. I set the torque for the axle nut to 195 ft lbs as per manual. This is the second set of bearings I have put in in the last week. Last bearing went out (badly) one week after putting it in. Not sure where Im going wrong with the front bearings. Everything was pressed in slowing and gently and has new hub.

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