Wheel Bearing ... How much play???

[WILLYD-MAX]

I am working on a friends 06 Chevy 3500Dually 4x4 and discovered the drivers side wheel bearing is on its way out. Its got 60k on it already so its out of warr. I can pull the wheel in and out approx. a 1/4 in each way. How far can he drive it that way? Is that quite a bit of play? Obviosly there is not supposed to be any but was just wondering what to tell him. :(

[DmaxMaverick]

Mine went from 1/4" to 1" play in less than 100 miles. I don't know how long it was at 1/4" or less, but it went fast as soon as I noticed it. Once there's play, they'll self destruct in a hurry....or not. That was on the driver's side. When the passenger side failed, it stayed about 1/8-1/4" for a long time (parts on order). Just like rolling craps. It's a gamble, and I hate to think about the worst case scenario. It could cost more than just money. Although, I've never heard of one actually parting.

[WILLYD-MAX]

Thank you. I advised him to get it fixed as soon as he could.