Maintenance of Automotive Wheel Bearings
Automotive wheel bearings are used as a key component in the suspension and steering systems of modern cars companies. They provide vital support, allowing the wheel to rotate freely in the proper alignment and ensuring that it remains in place when exposed to the stress of daily driving. Proper maintenance and regular inspection of wheel bearings is an important part of keeping a car running at peak performance and safety levels.
Immediate Maintenance
Before inspecting or maintaining a wheel bearing the car should be raised off the ground using a car jack and secured with jack stands. The wheel should then be completely removed and the dust cap removed from the center of the wheel hub. All road dirt, debris and excess grease should be removed from the bearing as well as from the hub and the mating surfaces of the wheel.
Checking
The bearing should now be checked for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or uneven surfaces. The inside of the bearing can be checked for any contaminants or corrosion. Any signs of uneven wear or corrosion should be replaced with a new bearing if possible, or the current bearing should be re-greased.
Lubrication
Once the bearing is clean, it should be lightly greased with a quality multipurpose automotive grease. This can be done using either a manual greasing gun, or an air-powered version. The bearing should be completely covered with the grease and then have excess wiped off, leaving only a light coating on the surface.
Reassembly
The bearing should then be reinstalled into the hub, ensuring that it is properly aligned and seated. The dust cap should then be replaced and the wheel bolted back onto the hub. The torque applied to the fastenings should be in line with the manufacturer’s specifications.
Follow Up
The wheel bearing should now be properly inspected to ensure that it remains properly seated and correctly aligned. Regular visual inspections of the bearings should also be performed, to check that no further wear or damage has occurred. If any unusual wear or damage is noticed it is important to replace the bearing or perform further maintenance as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Wheel bearings are a crucial part of any vehicle’s suspension and steering systems. Regular inspection and maintenance of wheel bearings can help to ensure that the vehicle remains in good working order and provides a safe and enjoyable ride. By following the steps detailed above, anyone can easily maintain and check their wheel bearings and keep their car running in top shape.
