Axle bearings: how to tell if replacement needed

You have the tapered Timkens (originals) These are in some ways easier, some ways more difficult.

You WILL have play as when they are apart, there is nothing to "hold them together."

What you are looking for OUT of the car is rust, contamination and dirt, and obvious wear, roughness. These have an inner and outer seal, so they are packed with grease just like a front wheel bearing

The adjustment procedure is in all of the factory manuals.............

You can download them here

http://www.forabodiesonly.com/mopar/showthread.php?p=1970088617