Avoid These 3 Wheel Bearing Replacement Mistakes

Avoid These 3 Wheel Bearing Replacement Mistakes

Table of Contents:

I. Introduction

• Explanation of Wheel Bearings
• Importance of Installing it Correctly

II. Common Mistakes in Wheel Bearing Installation

• Putting it in Backwards
• Forgetting to Remove the Race
• Using the Wrong Adapters
• Using a Hammer

III. Detailed Explanations of the Mistakes

• Importance of Installing it Properly
• Precautions in Putting it in Backwards
• Consequences of Forgetting to Remove the Race
• Potential Issues when Using the Wrong Adapters
• Damage Caused by Using a Hammer

IV. Conclusion

• Summary of Common Mistakes
• Importance of Proper Installation
• Reminder to Purchase Parts at 1aauto.com

Article:

Introduction Wheel bearings might seem like a small part of a vehicle, but its importance should never be underestimated. It is what allows the wheels to rotate on the axle smoothly. When it fails, it can cause a variety of problems from noise to complete loss of control. Thus, its proper installation is crucial for the safety of the vehicle and its passengers.

Common Mistakes in Wheel Bearing Installation Installing a wheel bearing may seem simple, but there are common mistakes that can easily be made when doing so. Here are the top four mistakes that people make in installing wheel bearings.

Putting it in Backwards Some bearings may not have a specific direction, but it is important to know if your vehicle has a tone ring, reluctor wheel, or magnet on the bearing. These components play a vital role in the function of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Incorrectly installing the bearing backwards could cause the ABS to malfunction, resulting in an ABS light appearing on the dashboard.

Forgetting to Remove the Race When removing the hub out of the bearing, it is common for the race to come out with it. However, some people forget to remove it from the hub and proceed to put the new bearing in. This could cause the new bearing to be misaligned and unable to fit correctly, leading to potential damage to the bearing and the hub.

Using the Wrong Adapters When removing the old bearing, it does not matter how it is removed as it is already deemed unusable. However, when installing the new bearing, using the correct adapters is crucial. If an adapter that is too small is used and only pushes on the center part of the bearing, it can put a lot of strain on the bearing. The correct method is to push on the outside of the bearing or set the old bearing on top of the new one when installing it.

Using a Hammer Using a hammer when installing a wheel bearing may seem like a quick and easy solution, but it is heavily discouraged. It can cause the bearing to be installed crooked, resulting in the edges of the bearing becoming damaged. This damage can cause the bearing to fail early, leading to potential safety hazards.

Detailed Explanations of the Mistakes Importance of Installing it Properly When pressing in a wheel bearing, it is crucial to install it correctly the first time. Press-in bearings are considered a one-shot deal, meaning they cannot be taken out and re-installed once they are in. Compromising the bearing by having it come apart during the installation process could lead to longevity issues, forcing the need for another replacement.

Precautions in Putting it in Backwards Installing the wheelbearing backwards is a common mistake, especially on bearings that are similar on both sides. This mistake, although unintentional, can result in problems with the ABS, leading to safety hazards. It is important to check the bearing beforehand to determine which way the ABS ring should be facing and position it accordingly.

Consequences of Forgetting to Remove the Race A forgotten race is a simple mistake, but it can cause a multitude of issues. The race not fitting correctly in the new bearing can cause both the hub and the bearing to be damaged, leading to potential safety hazards.

Potential Issues when Using the Wrong Adapters Using the wrong adapter when installing the new bearing can put a lot of strain on the bearing, causing it to deteriorate over time. It is important to use the correct adapter to push on the outside of the bearing.

Damage Caused by Using a Hammer A hammer is not a recommended tool to use when installing a wheel bearing. It can cause damage to the edges of the bearing that can lead to its early failure, resulting in potential safety hazards.

Conclusion In summary, there are common mistakes that people make in installing wheel bearings. Putting the bearing in backwards, forgetting to remove the race, using the wrong adapters, and using a hammer could all lead to potential safety hazards. It is important to install the bearing correctly the first time, and to always use the proper tools and techniques. If you need to purchase parts for your vehicle, visit 1aauto.com for high-quality automotive parts.