On the move: Generation 2 wheel bearings Out of the four wheel bearing groups, the second generation is the most demanding for the technician, because it has a greater emphasis on special tools and correct fitting procedures. Rob Marshall partners with Schaeffler's FAG brand to discover how the job should be done It is rather unfortunate that second-generation bearings are the most common types fitted to the UK car parc, because they can be extremely difficult to install if you venture away from official fitting advice. Excessive force and inappropriate tools Example 1: Renault Clio III (FWD) front wheel bearing
Replacing wheel bearings is made considerably easier with the correct tools and knowledge
risk damaging the replacement bearing, shortening its life, or rendering it useless. Understandably, the supplier cannot be held responsible for resultant damage. Fortunately, training and tools make the task considerably easier. The following examples demonstrate best practices, to ensure maximum life and reliability from replacement Gen 2 wheel bearings:
2. When selecting the size of your puller's thrust piece for the rear face, it needs to be of a diameter slightly smaller than that of the hub.
3. Whether using a hand-operated manual puller, or one that is powered, ensure that is it not misaligned. Otherwise, it will apply force at an angle, which might damage the tool.
4. With the equipment mounted and used correctly, the wheel mounting flange should be extracted from the knuckle.
5. Should the inner bearing races be attached to the flange still, they can be removed with the pictured tool.
6. Using a special tool in this way, instead of improvising, avoids damaging the flange, so it can be reused - presuming that it is serviceable, of course!
WHEEL BEARINGS
1. Carry-out the preparatory operations, including disconnecting the bottom ball joint and outer CV joint splines from the steering knuckle, removing the brake disc and relocating the caliper.
25
