I drive a '98 Dodge Ram, and my bearings just went out for the second time. Should I get a new rotor or just new bearings? And if I need a new rotor, is there anything other than the rotor that I need to install?
you should probably think about geting new half shafts, that is if this is on the front and if it is on the rear you might have to change the axel(not likely though)
If you didn't change the bearing races when you changed the bearings, you should do that this time. It's what probably caused the last bearings to go out again.
Its not likely that the rotors are at fault. Inspect and if there is no unusual wear they should be fine. Its odd that you are having to replace the bearings again, be sure to clean the rotor thoroughly to remove any metal particles that could cause bearing failure. Other than that use a quality grease and pack the bearings well. Be sure the new race is seated in the rotor. Check a repair manuel to be sure that you are tightening the spindle nut correctly and do not over tighten. Modern roller bearings rarely fail unless they are not properly lubricated. I have driven trucks and cars well over 20 years old that still have the original bearings.
