Blue wheel bearings in Lesters 83 R100

[140008]

I am changing out the inner spacers and shims in my Lesters for the proper preload,I have all the correct BMW parts.The bearings appear blue,must have gotten hot as the preload was/is too tight,but they look fine.Did the heat make the metal soft? Should I change out the bearings?

[20774]

If I had any doubts about the bearings, I'd change them. Pretty critical items if you ask me.

[Stan_R80/7]

If the bearings are blue, that means the temperature of the bearings at some point exceeded 700 degrees F. That changed the metallurgical properties of the steel and softened (annealed) it some. You should plan on replacing the bearings snd inspect the wheel hub carefully at the next maintenance opportunity. Good luck!

[140008]

OK,I'll change the bearings,Thank you.