Front wheel bearings

[paul08]

I have a 2013 GS LC and the front wheel bearing needs replacing.

Can anyone confirm what generic bearings are required?

I believe that I would need two BMW part number "C36.31.8.534.835 CA12G Roller bearing", but as the current bearings need replacing after 22k miles, I would prefer to have a "better" (longer lasting) part fitted at an independant garage.

Suggestions?

 

[Sea Dog]

I'd suggest getting the oem bearings. Firstly, because I learned on a Reliability Centred Maintenance course a few years ago that bearings, rather contrary to my expectations and popular belief, don't tend to fail in the standard bathtub curve forecast but rather more randomly. Therefore 22k miles on one set doesn't set a precedent for the life of the replacements. Secondly, because I (an Engineer, so not without the requisite skill) replaced my front wheel bearings on a Honda with cheaper but still high quality (SKF) bearings of, supposedly, identical dimensions using the equivalent book at the bearing suppliers. In fact the interference fit was very slightly less tight (and perhaps the coefficient of expansion was different?) and over time this looser fit caused wear in the mating surface of the wheel itself resulting in a wobbly wheel needing replacement. I foresee this post going down in flames, but bearings are critical components which must be exactly right, so there's my advice for you to take or leave.

 

[CPJS]

I'd suggest getting the oem bearings. Firstly, because I learned on a Reliability Centred Maintenance course a few years ago that bearings, rather contrary to my expectations and popular belief, don't tend to fail in the standard bathtub curve forecast but rather more randomly. Therefore 22k miles on one set doesn't set a precedent for the life of the replacements. Secondly, because I (an Engineer, so not without the requisite skill) replaced my front wheel bearings on a Honda with cheaper but still high quality (SKF) bearings of, supposedly, identical dimensions using the equivalent book at the bearing suppliers. In fact the interference fit was very slightly less tight (and perhaps the coefficient of expansion was different?) and over time this looser fit caused wear in the mating surface of the wheel itself resulting in a wobbly wheel needing replacement. I foresee this post going down in flames, but bearings are critical components which must be exactly right, so there's my advice for you to take or leave.

Also, as in the car world, you will get some form of warranty on spares if you use OE parts fitted by professionals.

 

[paul08]

Point well made and taken on board

 

[Tractors are go]

And, should it go tits up; then you've someone else to blame !

Having done the front wheel bearings on my Trophy 12 due to getting the wheel powder coated, Triumph were a whole 3p more than aftermarket ones.

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[matchlessman]

The early demise of wheel bearings is often more down to enthusiastic pressure washing than normal wear and tear.

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