Brakes and Bearings - How do you know

After a100 miles or so I compare the temperature of each bearing hub. I do this with as little brake as possible to prevent brake heating of the hub.

If one is much hotter than the rest there is most likely a problem.

Look on the back side of tire, where the hub attaches to axle, it should be dry. If the rear bearing seal is leaking there would be wetness or discoloration from the oils from the grease leaking out of the hubs rear seal. Typically this is the seal that has failed if there's contamination on the brake shoes.

Grease or oil on brake lining can cause the wheel to lock-up or skid when the other act normal. As the problem gets worse you will begin to see and smell grease or oil.

js6343js6343 wrote:
So I know much has been written about how/when to repack bearings and adjust brakes.

My question is a little different.

What is your practicle experience for what happens when bearings fail or grease contaminates the shoes.

Do you just get a lot of noise? Smoking? Odor? Anyone lose a wheel. What do you check for when you stop for gas?

when I lost a bearing, I was turning a sweeping corner and since we were at about 40 mph, I didn't hear anything ... but yes, smoke was visible from the wheel.

When I stop, I used to check for heat from the wheels which could indicate problems with the electric brakes or bearings. Grease on the shoes would reduce stopping power for sure. I would think it's dependent on how you have your brake controller set.