An HGV wheel bearing kit is a complete set of components that are needed to replace the wheel bearings on a commercial vehicle. These are designed to handle heavy loads, high mileage, and the challenging conditions that HGVs face on the road.
Wheel bearings ensure the safe and efficient operation of any lorry or heavy goods vehicle by allowing the wheel, hub, and tyres to rotate smoothly. They help to accommodate and distribute the weight of the vehicle and its load. When an HGV bearing fails it can risk mechanical damage, with the potential for the truck to be out of action. In some cases, it can be a cause of dangerous on-road incidents.
The Importance of HGV Wheel Bearings
When considering what is a wheel bearing kit, it’s important to remember the importance of wheel bearings to the safe operation of trucks and other commercial vehicles. Sitting inside the wheel hub, they support the wheel’s rotation, absorbing the forces generated by braking, cornering, and acceleration.
The size and weight of an HGV means that bearings need to be highly robust, and most will use tapered roller bearings. These are ideal for managing heavy axial and radial loads. Each wheel hub will typically contain inner and outer bearings to ensure that the truck remains stable under intense pressure.
Bearings that have become worn or damaged can result in poor performance and uneven tyre wear. In some cases, the entire hub can fail or the wheel can be lost. This makes wheel hub maintenance essential as a preventative measure.
What’s included in a wheel bearing kit?
So, what is a wheel bearing kit and what does it include? The contents can vary depending on the make, model, and axle type of the vehicle, but in most cases the kit will include:
– Heavy-Duty Wheel Bearings
Tapered roller bearings are designed to handle heavy loads and challenging road conditions. Wheel bearing kits will typically include both inner and outer bearings.
– Bearing Races
Bearing races, also known as tapers, are the surfaces on which the rollers sit. These are precision-machined for smooth operation. Usually, both the bearings and the races will be replaced together to ensure smooth performance and durability.
– Seals
Wheel end seals protect the bearing assembly from road debris, salt, and water. A bearing kit will include oil or grease seals specific to the hub type.
– Circlips/Snap Rings
The bearings are secured in position within the hub assembly with circlips. This helps to ensure a secure fit during reassembly.
– Fasteners or Locking Nuts
Some wheel bearing kits include hub kits or locking rings. These can be used to replace the original fixings that may not be reusable, or if they have specific torque requirements.
– Grease
Older hubs and some trailer axles may require lubrication. If required, the wheel bearing kit will include greases that can withstand high-load, high-temperature environments.
Signs that HGV wheel bearings need replacement
By detecting worn bearings early, costly repairs can be prevented, reducing the risk of roadside breakdowns.
Some of the most common warning signs of failing bearings include:
- Grinding, whirring, or humming noises coming from the wheel area.
- Noticeable play in the wheel or hub assembly when the wheel is being inspected.
- Premature or uneven tyre wear.
- Increased resistance when the vehicle is moving.
- Noticeable lower fuel efficiency.
- Pull or vibrations through the steering or chassis.
- ABS faults or warning lights if the sensor is integrated into the bearing assembly.
It’s essential that fleet managers and hauliers ensure that regular inspections take place. Wheel bearing assessments should be made during preventative maintenance checks.
Expert advice and high quality parts from CV Hubs & Bearings
At CV Hubs & Bearings, we’re specialists in all things HGV, bus, and trailer wheel hubs and bearings. Our experienced team is always on hand to answer any questions you may have.
We stock an extensive range of wheel hub components for a wide range of vehicles.
Contact us to find out more about our services
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