Originally Posted by
Andy_K
I've heard it suggested that hub bearings are over-tightening from the factory to prevent rattle-induced damage during pre-use handling. I don't know if there's anything to that. Maybe it's just easier to set the machines to do it that way.
I don't think there's any damage possible from 'pre-use' handling. Its easier for machines to assemble parts 'tight' than it is 'loose'. Customers will complain about loose bearings all day long but they very rarely complain about tight bearings. Tight bearings will have a tendency to loosen up while loose bearings will....loosen up.
Phil stuff is nice but a sealed bearing is a sealed bearing (more or less). If it feels dry its dry. Phil stuff may or may not last longer. Owners of higher end anything tend to take care of things better than owners of lower end things.
Adjusting sealed bearing preload is exceptionally difficult. Most people, including mechanics don't know how to check and most don't know how to adjust it. Checking is an
in/out movement not a
back n forth movement.