1999 4runner, How much play is normal for rear wheel bearings

[rmoore]

!999 4runner 6 cyl , Drums in back
I have followed the fantastic write up on the forum stickys on replacing the rear wheel seals ( Rear Axle Seals: The Ultimate Information and Replacement Thread (3rd gen), Mine were leaking. After getting the axels out I did notice the play in the backing plate like the article stated. BUT, I am not sure how much play is normal. I have read where some say they have normal play after changing the bearings. Mine moves about 1/8 up when I wiggle the backing plate. Is this too much?
Another question:
If I get the new parts like the ones listed in the article, is this something a non dealer machine shop can replace or should you take the axles to the dealer and let them do it. I did not know if the specs where so specific that only the dealer should do it.

Thanks
Ray

 

[Singtoe]

Side to side bearing play is fine. It is the up and down that is what you have to worry about. Once everything is back together, lift up on the axle flange. There should be no play.

 

[rmoore]

Thanks Singtoe

I'll put it back together and check the up and down play before deciding on what to do. I just don't want to spend hundreds of dollars on parts and machine work if they really are not bad.

Thanks again
Ray

 

[Blueman2]

If you have an outside shop press the bearings make sure they know how far to press the ABS rotor and inner bearing retainer on to the axle. If they don't position it properly, the bearing retainer will not engage the seal and thus the seal will not do it's job.

It took my Toyota dealer tech three trys to get it right.