Wheel Bearings

Play in a wheel on your ATV, or are mud and water getting past the seal into the bearing? This category brings together wheel bearings and bearing kits for ATVs, UTVs and dirt bikes, often designed for specific models and model years, so you can renew the bearings on exactly the wheel that is worn.

What wheel bearings and seals do

The wheel bearing carries the vehicle's weight and lets the wheel rotate with low friction, while the seals keep water, mud and sand out and the grease in. On an ATV or UTV that often runs in wet and dirty terrain, it is typically the condition of the seals that largely determines how long the bearing lasts. If you feel play when you rock the wheel, or hear a growling noise that changes with speed, it may be caused by a worn bearing.

How to choose the right bearing kit

Many products are kits for a specific vehicle and a specific axle, e.g. a rear wheel kit for the Yamaha YFM350 Warrior or a kit for the Polaris Ranger/Sportsman. So check:

• make, model and model year
• whether the kit is for the front or rear wheel
• whether seals are included or must be bought separately
• whether you only need to replace the bearing, or whether the entire hub should be replaced – if so, see hub assemblies

The category includes bearing kits from Pivot Works, EPI and QuadBoss as well as parts from OMIX.

Installation and maintenance

Wheel bearings are typically pressed out and in, which often requires a bearing puller or press so the new bearing is not damaged during installation. It can be an advantage to replace the bearings on both sides of the same axle at the same time and to check the bearing seat for wear. After riding in water and mud, it pays to check for play at regular intervals. More bearings and seals for wheels and axles can be found under wheel and axle bearings and seals.

Frequently asked questions

How can I tell that a wheel bearing on my ATV is worn?

Typical signs are play when you rock the wheel from top to bottom with the vehicle lifted, a growling or grinding noise and uneven rotation. Play can also be caused by other parts of the wheel suspension, so check them at the same time.

Should I replace the seals when I replace the wheel bearing?

It is typically recommended, because an old seal can let water and dirt reach the new bearing. Some kits contain both bearing and seals, while others contain only the bearing – check the contents for the specific part number.

When should I choose a hub assembly instead of a bearing kit?

It depends on the design. On some vehicles the bearing is part of a complete hub assembly that is replaced as one unit. If the bearing seat or hub is worn or damaged, a new hub assembly can also be the right choice.