[jeffahart]

Originally Posted by oski6754

I have a 1972 GMC Suburban, 1/2 ton, 350ci/350TH/NP205 bone stock setup that seems to corrupt front wheel bearings after limited 4 wheel drive use. (my theory)

I went back country camping this past weekend and used 4 wheel drive for about 25 miles, only to return to pavement with a growl in the right front, which I believe is a wheel bearing.

Both L&R front bearings were replaced with high quality parts less than 2 years ago after using 4x4 under similar circumstances.

Has anyone else experienced anything like this or have any theories as to what might be going on?

No that ain't right. Should get many miles on road and locked in offroad. did you replace outer races too? If you keep them greased they last.