I have a 2003 quad cab 2wd and have run up 245,000 miles.
At what point do most of you replace the wheel bearings ?

This spring I plan to take a 10,000 mile trip, so thought it might be
a good time for bearing replacement.

Second question what prices should I expect if I have it done ? (not at dealer)

Thanks,

Art

 

Not sure about "when" to replace bearings, usually you wait for them to start making noise or whatever before replacing.

On a 2wd, the front bearings are sealed hubs, and are replaced as a unit. Pretty easy to do, but the units are about $200+ a side. The rear bearings are typical bearings and can be replaced with basic hand tools. The only things you need to buy other than the bearings themselves are the seals (axle seal and shaft seals).

parts alone would run $500 for all 4 corners.. a mechanic would likely bend you over about the same for labor.

 

Can't say without seeing them. I would just inspect the (back) brgs and races and put in new seals for sure. I'd keep running them if they are still shiny. I put 5 qts in mine and found an embankment so I could tilt the truck both ways to get plenty to the wheel brgs. I don't know about the front cartridge brgs - never put that many miles on them. I've always been really proactive and I'd at least check them good for roughness and noise. Maybe even pull the hub off to get a good feel. BTW, I've always adjusted oiled brgs to 0 preload/clearence (OTR trucks included) and never had brg or seals problems. A leaky seal will usually tell you if something is wrong. Craig