A Guide to Wheel Bearings for the 1980-1989 Plymouth Gran Fury
Learn the signs of a bad wheel bearing and how to choose the right replacement for your classic M-Body Plymouth.
- Your Gran Fury uses serviceable tapered roller bearings in the front that require manual grease packing.
- A grinding or humming noise from the wheels is the most common sign of failure and is a critical safety issue.
- For longevity and safety, choose premium aftermarket brands like Timken, SKF, FAG, or National.
- Always replace wheel bearings in pairs on the same axle to ensure even wear and predictable handling.
Signs of a Failing Wheel Bearing
A bad wheel bearing is a serious safety issue that should be addressed immediately. A complete failure can cause the wheel to separate from the car, leading to a total loss of control. Watch for these common symptoms:
- Grinding or Growling Noise: This is the most frequent sign. You may hear a humming, grinding, or roaring sound coming from one of the wheels. The noise will usually change with your speed and may become louder when turning.
- Loose or Vague Steering: A worn bearing allows for excess movement, which can make your steering feel sloppy or unresponsive.
- Vehicle Pulling to One Side: A failing bearing can create drag, causing the car to pull toward the side of the bad bearing.
- Wheel Play or Wobble: If you jack the car up so the tire is off the ground, you can check for a bad bearing by grabbing the tire at the top and bottom. If you can rock it back and forth, the bearing is likely worn out.
Safety First: Do Not Drive on a Bad Bearing
Driving with a noisy or loose wheel bearing is extremely dangerous. The risk of the wheel coming off the vehicle is real. Have the vehicle inspected as soon as possible.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Wheel Bearing
Original Mopar bearings for a car of this age are very rare or discontinued. Fortunately, the aftermarket offers a wide range of quality options. For a critical safety part like a wheel bearing, investing in a quality brand is highly recommended. The brands available can be grouped into tiers based on quality and reputation.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium Brands (Highest Quality & Longevity)
- These brands are known for manufacturing high-quality parts that meet or exceed original equipment (OE) specifications. They use high-grade steel and precise manufacturing processes. For peace of mind and the longest service life, choose a brand from this tier.
- Timken: Widely regarded as a top-tier manufacturer, known for durability and quality materials.
- SKF: A global leader in bearing manufacturing, known for precision and performance.
- FAG: A German brand with a long history of producing high-quality, reliable bearings.
- National: A well-respected brand, now part of Federal-Mogul, with a strong reputation for quality wheel-end components.
- Quality Standard Brands (Good Value)
- These brands offer a good balance of quality and price, making them a solid choice for daily drivers.
- WJB: Often cited as a reliable budget-friendly option that provides good service life for its cost.
- Economy Brands (Budget-Focused)
- These are the most affordable options. While they will get your car back on the road, their long-term durability may not match that of premium brands.
- Mevotech: Reviews for Mevotech are mixed; some consider them a lower-tier brand, while others have had acceptable experiences. Their higher-end lines, like TTX, are generally better regarded.
Pro Tip: Front vs. Rear Bearings
The replacement process for front and rear wheel bearings on your Gran Fury is very different. The front bearings are serviceable and can be replaced by a skilled DIYer. The rear bearings are pressed on and typically require a hydraulic press, making the job more suitable for a professional repair shop.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace your wheel bearings will depend on whether you do the work yourself or hire a shop, and the quality of the parts you choose.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Wheel Bearing (Front or Rear) | $11.01 - $94.81 per wheel |
| Shop Labor (Front Bearings) | $125 - $250 per wheel |
| Shop Labor (Rear Bearings) | $200 - $400+ per wheel (estimate, due to press work) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I replace wheel bearings in pairs?
Yes, it is highly recommended. If one wheel bearing has failed, the bearing on the other side of the same axle has experienced the same amount of wear and is likely to fail soon. Replacing them in pairs ensures balanced performance and saves you from doing the same job twice.
What does it mean to "pack" a wheel bearing?
For the front wheels on your Gran Fury, the tapered roller bearings are not sealed. "Packing" means to manually force high-temperature wheel bearing grease into all the spaces within the roller bearing cage before installation. This is a critical step for lubrication and heat dissipation.
Do I need any special tools to replace the front wheel bearings?
You will need standard mechanic's tools, a floor jack and jack stands, a torque wrench, and a bearing race driver (or a socket of the correct size) to install the new races into the rotor hub. You will also need high-temperature wheel bearing grease.
Are there any recalls for Gran Fury wheel bearings?
No, searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no safety recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) for wheel bearings on the 1980-1989 Plymouth Gran Fury. Failures are due to normal wear and tear over time.
Technical Specifications
The front axle uses a serviceable wheel bearing and race set with a tapered roller design, consisting of a separate inner and outer bearing. The rear axle uses pressed-on wheel bearings.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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