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Old 09-11-2008, 07:32 AM   #23 (permalink)
almightybmw
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Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: Bozeman, MT
Posts: 248

Daily Driver - '02 Pontiac Grand Prix SE
90 day: 18.45 mpg (US)
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So while the graph may not be a direct coloration to wheel bearings, it does show how steel bearings and ceramic bearings react to conditions. I'm already upside down on the costs I've put into my Protege as a rally car, so spending extra doesn't matter, its' a hobby. I think the throwout bearing would benefit the most, as it deals with the high speeds of the motor frequently. The input bearings of the tranny also would benefit lots. Knowing the design of my tranny, under high stress certain parts flex, putting extra stress on the bearings. Stronger bearing, less likely for it to grenade.

I'd be willing to spend several hundred on bearings just to know the rally car wouldn't fall apart when under stress. FE means nothing in those cases, so ROI isn't a consideration. Performance minded is the only way I see you could get your money's worth out of ceramic bearings. I've never changed the wheel bearings on the Protege, and at 140K miles, they still spin freely, without grinding. I doubt you'd see quantitative results in FE.
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