The Timken Company Automotive Tech Tips: Proper hub unit removal and installation
Jan. 1, 2020
The Timken Company offers technicians the following advice on removing and installing hub unit bearings properly to enhance the performance and longevity of hubs and benefit the axles and wheels.
The Timken Company offers technicians the following advice on
removing and installing hub unit bearings properly to enhance the
performance and longevity of hubs and benefit the axles and
wheels.
Hub Unit Bearing Removal
Begin by raising the vehicle up and removing the lug nuts
and the wheel.
Remove the brake caliper and rotor. The caliper should be
supported and not hanging freely.
Next, the axle nut needs to be removed using an axle nut
socket. The vehicle manufacturer’s instructions should be used to
determine proper nut replacement.
If possible, disconnect the ABS sensor wire from its
mating connector point. This is usually located in the wheel well
or on the chassis frame. Also, disconnect the sensor wire from the
clips that are used to properly position the sensor wire in the
wheel frame. Before removing, be sure to make note of the current
orientation and positioning of the sensor wire and bearing.
Remove the bolts that attach the bearing to the steering
knuckle. A puller may be needed to remove the hub assembly from
the knuckle. Be careful not to damage the knuckle or axle shaft.
Hub Unit Bearing InstallationFirst, insert the new hub assembly into the steering
knuckle. Check the positioning of the splines on the axle shaft as
the hub assembly is inserted into the knuckle. Carefully position
the two components so the splines are not damaged during the
installation. Never force the hub assembly on the shaft and never
hit it with a hammer or other tool.
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Next, torque the knuckle-bearing mounting bolts to the
vehicle manufacturer’s specification using a torque wrench. Don’t
use an impact wrench because it does not reliably use the proper
torque.
If possible, connect the new ABS sensor (comes already
attached to the new bearing) to its mating connection point and
clips in the wheel well and frame area.
Install the axle nut. Tighten the nut to the vehicle
manufacturer’s torque specification using a torque wrench. Again,
an impact wrench is not recommended.
Replace the brake rotor and brake caliper. All components
should be clean of debris and burrs.
Replace the wheel and torque the lug nuts. Follow the
vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations regarding torque
specification and re-torque requirements.
Proper maintenance and handling procedures are critical. Always
follow installation instructions and maintain proper lubrication.
TechTips is not intended to substitute for the specific
recommendations of equipment suppliers. Every reasonable effort
has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained
in this writing, but no liability is accepted for errors,
omissions or for any other reason.
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