Originally Posted by jameslf (Post 410074)

Ford stopped using Timken bearings in the rear ends in the late 90's. Went to KOYO ones. They are worthless and are usually wearing the axles by 30,000 miles. I used to average 4 ring and pinion installs a week. Around half of the '98 and newer cars needed bearings. In 2007, my friend working in the county police maintenance garage told me about five of the newest Crown Vics being taken to a local test track for some "spirited" driver training. When the cars were inspected afterwards, every one of them needed bearings in the rearend. And no you don't have to pack them with grease either. But if you buy OEM bearings it couldn't hurt. They need all the help they can get.