Could it be my axle bearing?

[deepcj7]

Something from the rear of the quad is squeeking, can't really pinpoint where it's coming from. It happens only after riding it and it's not a grinding noise. I'm sure it's not the brake or the chain. What is the average life of the axle bearing? Is there something I could do to narrow it down? It's a 2000 400ex. thanks guys.

[Ryan]

The best way to check if your bearing are bad is to put the rear end on jacks and more around the axle. If the axle moves up and down and it sounds unstable then thats it otherwise it could just be your brakes:huh

[JCWevs]

Is the sqeaking coming from the area of the axle? or is it further up the swingarm towards the swingarm bearings? The axle bearings usually don't sqeak unless there is no grease, the best way to know if the axle bearings are bad is to get the bike off the ground and try wiggle the axle up, down, forward, and back. If there is play then replace the bearings.

[deepcj7]

It only makes noise when the axle is rotating, not when the suspension is moving up or down. I will try your suggestions tomorrow. What is the worst that can happen if the bearing were to fail, be stranded somewhere with a locked up axle? Thanks for your reply, more help would be appreciated.

[Predator36]

I have also heard a squeaking noise from the brake caliper sliding back and forth when the rotor is bent.

[Bean]

your axel wont lock up, it will just destroy the carrier sliding around in there with no lube and bearings, i rode for a long time on only one bearing, and it cracked my carrier in half, so dont do that

[phatswinn]

im riding on bad bearings too, i just dont have the money to buy a new carrier and i need a new carrier anyway, so ill wait till i make the money,


its probably the brakes

[BadA$$440]

Burgards makes some nice Bearing carriers for only $100 bucks.
I ordered one and i willl let you guys know how it is

[RED121572]

Mine is a 2000 also. I had to replace my bearings a year ago. My bearings went out over night. I jumped on it one morning and when I took a sharp turn, I heard a grinding sound and I could feel it in the foot pegs as well.

Good luck and let us know how she turns out!:D

[KAWSAM62]

just some info if you adj the chain to tight the rear bearings will fail just that much sooner thats how i killed mine on a 99 got the fac bearings from rocky mt atv for 20 a piece youll need 2 plus 2 new seals and maybe some orings good luck

[deepcj7]

Thanks for the help guys!!:)