Rear wheel bearing help 16V (kinda long, sorry)

[amalventano at sc.rr.com (Allyn)]

> Kinda like this: >>  ||  <

ok, both sets of outer races go into the rear disc. both sets of inner races 
(along with the bearings) go in after the outer races are in place (so your 
drawing appears correct). the inner-inner race presses towards the rotor 
center, force applied by the back face of the stub axle. the outer-inner 
race presses also towards the center (but in the opposite direction), force 
applied by the stub axle nut and washer. so basically, both bearings are 
held together by the torque on the axle nut. it is important to follow the 
bentley on this one, as you have to first torque the nut (to a decent 
torque, like hand tight with a 3/8 ratchet, NO GRONKING). this torque is to 
ensure the bearing races are actually seated all the way (using the entire 
assembly sorta like a press). the second part is to back the nut off and 
tighten to some tiny torque value. i normally do this step by feel. i 
temporarily put the wheel back on and spin it. as it spins i tighten the nut 
until there is a slightly noticable effect on the wheel speed (it slows down 
a tad faster). this minimizes overloading the bearings while ensuring you 
have proper bearing contact.

> ...mystical bearing physics? ;)

well, i have heard stories about vw's losing their rear wheels when the 
owner neglects the rear bearings for a long time. basically once the outer 
bearing goes, there is NOTHING left keeping the rear wheel on the stub axle. 
this is nearly impossible on disc cars, but very possible on drum cars, as 
there is no caliper carrier to prevent the rotor from coming forward (and 
ultimately off).

> Also, I bought some synthetic grease from Mobil One

yup, synthetic does just fine back there. just be sure its for wheel bearing 
application. anything else will have a hard time handling the temp 
(remember, your rear discs are directly connected to the rear bearings).

> Thanks, and if you could reply to my email I'd appreciate it - I'm 
> archived, but I wanna get the bearings done tonight.  Thanks all who've 
> helped!!!

'reply all' ought to do ya.

p.s. dont forget to use the inner grease seals. they are the ones that go on 
after you slip on the inner-inner race. they are handy, as they hold that 
bearing together while you put the rotor back on over the stub axle. if you 
dont have new seals, consider having them on hand before doing the job. 
also, new cotter pins are a good idea.

hth
Al

Allyn Malventano, ETC(SS), USN
87 Rieger Scirocco GTO 2.0 16v (daily driver, 200k, rocco #6)
86 Kamei Twin 16V Turbo Scirocco GTX (30% complete, rocco #7)
86.5 Occo 16v Trailer (rocco #8)
90 Passat GL 16V (the wifes new daily, 200k)