Wheel hub maintenance is also important

A wheel hub is a rotating component that connects the rim to the axle and carries the load between the tire and the axle.

In order to ensure the safety of vehicle operation and reduce the loss of components in operation, the host factory and the traffic management department will require users to regularly (usually 3 months or 20,000 kilometers) on the vehicle wheel disassembly maintenance and repair. 

The wheel plays a very important role in the use of the car, if it does not run properly, it may cause serious accidents such as loss of direction and vehicle rollover.

Therefore, how to ensure the smooth and reliable operation of the wheel, enhance the reliability and service life of each component, and reduce the cost of maintenance and the cost of lost time of vehicle downtime is important.

Visually inspect the vehicle before driving, the inspection includes the following aspects:

1. Check for loose, damaged or missing wheel nuts, hub end caps or half shaft fasteners. If there are rust or oil marks on the wheel bolts, the bolts may not be tightened to the correct torque.

2. Check for oil leaks at hub end caps, half shaft flanges, and screw plugs in oil filler holes.

3. Check the condition of the lubricant through the clear window on the hub end cap of the steering or trailer axle. If the lubricant looks white or black, water has entered or large metal shavings are present, which is a sign that the lubricant may be contaminated or that a component has been damaged and must be replaced. Contaminated lubricant may also be due to a failed oil seal, which must be replaced.

4. Check the level of lubricant through the clear window in the hub end cap of the steer axle or trailer axle, and top up the hub with some lubricant if necessary.

5. Check for signs of oil leakage at axle half-shaft flanges, around wheel hubs, in the braking system, on the inside of the wheels and at the tires.

NOTE: IF ANY OF THE ABOVE CONDITIONS EXIST, THE VEHICLE SHOULD BE STOPPED AND SERVICED.

Inspection during regular maintenance

When vehicles and axles undergo regular inspection and maintenance (refer to the requirements of the OEM and national regulations), the following aspects should be included in addition to the pre-trip inspection program:

First, check the oil level and use a magnetic tip pen to check if the lubricant is contaminated.

Second, lift and support the axle. Rotate the wheels to check that if they can spin freely. Listen and touch the bearings to check if they are not spinning properly or are shaking.

Third, place your hand on the top of the wheel and use a pry bar to lift the tire upward to check for loose bearings or wobble. If you find a large amount of wobble, the wheel needs to be repaired.

NOTE: IF ANY OF THE ABOVE CONDITIONS EXIST, THE VEHICLE SHOULD BE STOPPED AND SERVICED.