Seeing the pictures that Neil included http://californiavan.com/frontend/80-84lowerballjoints/
reminded me to REMIND YOU ALL to grease your front wheel bearings.� I was on a recent cross-country road trip (2 months, 11K miles) and got from San Diego to Portland, OR�when started hearing some "squealing" sounds; couldn't tell if it was me or the traffic alongside (was at a section of road with a high concrete embankment).� It was me!� Right Front Bearing failure...had to tow it on a flatbead the last 6 miles (stayed in a motel that night, extra $$$). 

But, the big part of this story is that the demolished wheel bearing ate up the Spindle; I could see the dollar signs quickly flashing before my eyes.� Luckily, the shop was able to get a good used one ($100), not sure if they are available anymore (mine is an '85 GL, with 155,000 miles on it).� Some guy said that spindles were mucho bucks ($300-400??) when it happened to him.� Also, the front disc was damaged, so they replaced bearing, spindle, pads, and disc; then they mentioned not a good idea to have unmatched-wear front brakes, so went ahead and did the left side bearing, disc, and pad.� All told....$680, plus the night in the motel in a crummy part of town where I broke down.

Moral of the story...an easy lube job would have prevented a roadside breakdown (and tow charge, insurance covered) and big bucks and associated hassle.� Question to List:� at what interval should bearings be serviced?

Rich
85 GL Vanagon
San Diego

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