Originally Posted by Mr. 66

I guess it would start with, how does it spin? Second would be disassembled, cleaned, and inspected. If the rolling surfaces are smooth the bracket is fine, bearing are probably good, inspect the bearings sometimes they can chip. When a bearing breaks sometimes they destroy the races or spindle but not always.

Many people just replace them every time they service. If the grease is good at service I keep, if the grease is contaminated I'll inspect closer.

Sometimes the brackets just wear out, usually one will see pitting on the races, but not always, worn bracket could have some slop side to side at the power position, but not at the 90' from.

Sometimes if the cups are borderline I'll replace caged bearings for loose.