Bearing Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer and 2005 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Inspect bearings for the following defects. Possible causes are shown:
1. Cratering - fatigue failure.
2. Spot polishing - incorrect seating.
3. Imbedded dirt engine oil.
4. Scratching - dirty engine oil.
5. Base exposed - poor lubrication.
6. Both edges worn - journal damaged.
7. One edge worn - journal tapered or bearing not seated.
  
  Fig 1: Inspecting Bearing
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.