wheel bearings and IR thermometer

[PonyExpress]

Just got home from picking up TT from dealer after warranty repairs. Used my IR thermo for the first time to check the wheel bearings .
Am i looking for a certain temp range or am I looking for a temp out of line with the others.

all 4 hub temped between 121F and 132 F . Im asuming a bad wheel bearing would be a lot hotter like 400+ F ????

Edumacate me please

[Bassdogs]

Originally Posted by PonyExpress

Just got home from picking up TT from dealer after warranty repairs. Used my IR thermo for the first time to check the wheel bearings .
Am i looking for a certain temp range or am I looking for a temp out of line with the others.

all 4 hub temped between 121F and 132 F . Im asuming a bad wheel bearing would be a lot hotter like 400+ F ????

Edumacate me please

I just lay the back of my hand to each hub. If hot to the touch vs just warm you likely should check out that wheel.

[norty1]

When I did that, I did not get concerned unless there was a wide difference between hubs on one side. Over 10 deg F and I would be suspicious.

Since TSPS, I monitor the temps a different way. Still look at every stop on a walk around.

[ttavasc]

While I carry an IR gun I still like to touch the hubs from time to time. I've always been told that you should be able to keep your hand on the hub for a full 10 seconds or more. If not then things are getting hotter than normal for some reason. Bearings too tight, not enough grease or grease is worn out, brakes dragging if so equipped, etc. I find that a "normal" feeling temp on my hubs translates to a range of 90-110 on the IR gun. As others have noted, a notable discrepancy between sides or axles should be investigated. I like to check the temps every couple of hours when we stop for rest breaks or fuel.

[BCx213]

I use my FLIR C2 thermo infrared camera to check the hubs. I can do snap shots of it if needed to show the tech. I use it on HVAC, pump motors, thermo imaging homes for heat loss, scan electrical panels for loose hot connections etc...not cheap but the cost has dropped enough for me to buy one.

[TomC]

The side getting the sun's heat will run hotter by several degrees as will the tires.