Near Side Bearings

[leodistiger]

Hi

My 1986 Jaugar XJ-S 5.3 has recently passed the MOT with advisories on the the front and rear nearside wheel bearings.

Can anyone tell me how many bearing there are on each wheel and what other settings are need to ensure they don't wear out too quickly.

Thank you.

Nick

[almcl]

Hi Nick

There are inner and outer bearings on both front and rear. They come in a set from most dealers. Or you can go and get a generic replacement from a bearing specialist merely by quoting (or taking with you) the number stamped on the race itself.

The front ones are do-able at home, as long as you feel confident of getting the races tapped in squarely, but I have to say even after watching an experienced Jag mechanic do the rear one, I am not sure I'd want to tackle it.

Also, I think it might be worth getting the MoT tester's diagnosis confirmed. Play at the rear can be due to several other things besides the bearing and getting the hub carrier off and refitted is an interesting challenge, if like me, you have difficulty getting your head round 'bearing pre-load' and crushable spacers. If you can find a local independant Jag man with experience of the older car's IRS, he shouldn't charge much (if anything) to confirm the rear bearing play.

I personally wouldn't trust a dealer - to few of their staff are old enough to remember these cars.

Finally, this is not a job to undertake for the first time without the manual.

[leodistiger]

Many thanks Al.

I will be going back to the MOT garage to find out more on the rear bearings.

The guy at the MOT garage replaced all the discs and pads last year and did a reasonable job for me, so he could get the job of doing the bearings!

Nick

[poprivet]

Nick, Re the front. Difficulty depends if it is worn or just needed adjusting. Also inspect the stub axle, often the bearing will have worn it due to spinning, good mechanics will use a retaining compound to prevent that.
Pop