Wheel Bearing Archives - Page 3 of 4 - Tomorrows Technician
VIDEO: How Much Flange Runout Is Too Much?

Andrew Markel discusses wheel bearing flanges and how runout in one component can translate into more runout in the bearing.

VIDEO: Pre-Loading Bearings: What’s Going On Inside?

Andrew Markel discusses pre-loading wheel bearings, and how it affects the geometry of the inside of the bearing.

VIDEO: The Technology Of Bearing Grease

Andrew Markel discusses wheel bearing grease, and how it has been developed to keep rolling elements moving with maximum efficiency and minimum friction.

VIDEO: Wheel Bearing Seals And Drag

Andrew Markel discusses the importance of the wheel bearing seal, and how a filing seal can cause drag during vehicle operation.

New Wheel Bearing Technology Will Change Your Replacement & Diagnostic Approach

Two technologies are now being used on new vehicles and in aftermarket replacement hub units that allow engineers to put better bearings in smaller packages. These technologies will change the way you replace and diagnose wheel bearings.

VIDEO: Freeing Seized Wheel Bearings: The Do’s And Don’ts

Andrew Markel describes some common mistakes in removing a seized wheel bearing, as well as the right tools and procedures to prevent damaging the unit.

VIDEO: Bearing Noise With Zero Play

Andrew Markel explains how a bearing that’s making noise, but maintaining zero play, can cause a wheel bearing issue down the road.

VIDEO: What Is The Brinell Scale?

Andrew Markel explains the Brinell scale using an example from a curb hit, and how that damage can cause a wheel bearing to slowly destroy itself over time.

VIDEO: Replacing Gen 1 Wheel Bearings

Andrew Markel discusses Gen 1 wheel bearings, and how this simple wheel bearing can be the most complicated to install.

Wheel Bearings And Locking Hubs

Automatic hubs are used on many 4×4 trucks to disengage the front wheels when four-wheel drive is not needed. Disconnecting the front wheels reduces friction and may improve fuel economy as much as one mile per gallon depending on the vehicle. A one mpg difference may not sound like much, but every little bit helps.

Common Reasons For Wheel Bearing Failure

When a bearing wears out, it is usually a case of inadequate lubrication, faulty installation or improper adjustment. For the repair to be successful, you must first determine why the previous bearing failed. For sealed hub units, examining the internal bearings and races is impossible.

VIDEO: Should Axle Nuts Be Reused On A New Hub Or Axle?

Should the axle nut be replaced when a new wheel bearing or CV joint is replaced? Andrew Markel discusses when to replace the axle nut as well as the proper torque procedure when using an axle nut socket.