Tech Tip: FAQs on Wheel Bearing Installation

Tech Tip: FAQs on Wheel Bearing Installation

Here are the top frequently asked questions about bearing installation from SKF.

Can the rings located in the tracks next to the bearing be re-used?
SKF: No, these locking rings must be replaced by new ones during mounting because they are often seriously damaged during dismounting. The locking rings should be considered as safety features, as they help to secure the position of the bearing.

The seal in the wheel bearing kit does not look exactly like the one that was mounted. Why is that?

SKF: Because products are undergoing continuous development and improvement, a component may look slightly different from an original part. Be assured that SKF approves only seals that are similar to or better than the original.

My bearing is equipped with a magnetic impulse ring for ABS. How can I be sure what side of the bearing the impulse ring is situated on and how should I turn the bearing when mounting?
SKF: To make sure what side the impulse ring is located, one can use a thin, light object that you carefully place against the side of the bearing. The magnetism from the bearing will attract the object. Mount the bearing with the magnetic impulse ring toward the inside, against the ABS sensor. Be aware that incorrect mounting can lead to failure of the braking system to function properly. Don’t let the magnetic impulse ring be subjected to hits and bumps or make contact with other magnetic fields.


My wheel bearing has two taper roller bearings. Why should I fill the space between the bearings with grease? How much grease should I use?

SKF: The grease in this space is there to protect the bearing from contamination. The amount of grease should be around 50% of the space in a mounted application.

How much grease should I use when I grease the bearing?

SKF: Many bearings are sealed and greased for life. Others are open and should be greased when mounted. It is difficult to say precisely how much grease is correct; the most important thing is that one makes sure that bearings have grease within them. If too much grease has been used, the potential surplus will sling out when the bearing is rotating. Do not forget the other details that need lubrication. Look in the mounting instructions and the car manufacturer’s recommendations. Always use a grease with good quality.

For more information about SKF bearings and wheel end hub units, visit www.vsm.skf.com.

You May Also Like

Snap-on Continues to Offer Free Weekly Product Training Sessions

The online training and question and answer sessions are free of charge.

Snap-on national training manager Keith Wray will continue to hold weekly new product training sessions throughout the year that give professional technicians the opportunity to learn more about Snap-on Fast-Track Intelligent Diagnostics tools such as the ZEUS, TRITON and APOLLO series. 

The online training and question and answer sessions are free of charge and are conducted as follows:

Scan Tools: Solving the Diagnostic Puzzle

“The fact is, the most expensive tool may not be the best tool for you. It depends on what vehicles you work on and what you want out of the tool.” – Dwayne Myers, Dynamic Automotive, Frederick, MD Related Articles – ISN’s Annual Tool Dealer Expo Gives Attendees Sneak Peek at New Products – Editor’s

ISN’s Annual Tool Dealer Expo Gives Attendees Sneak Peek at New Products

The TechShop team and more than 3,500 attendees from around the world recently joined Integrated Supply Network (ISN) at its 14th annual Tool Dealer Expo June 24-25 in Orlando, FL. There, suppliers launched new products and gave away more than $2 million in cash and prizes throughout the weekend event. Related Articles – Beyond the

Editor’s Notes: ‘The Rising Tide Lifts All Boats’

For the past year and a half, in addition to being editor of TechShop, I’ve also carried the role as editor of our student publication Tomorrow’s Tech, which is delivered to NATEF-certified automotive technical programs throughout the U.S. With this responsibility, I’m keenly aware of the industry’s need for the next generation of automotive service

Make Aluminum Welding Easier with Cebotech’s MIG Welders

All three of Cebotech’s MIG welders (models 301, 302 and 322) were designed to make aluminum welding easier. Related Articles – New Snap-on Limited Edition Speed Demon Roll Cab – Lisle Low Profile Fuel Line Disconnect – Dent Fix Soft-Shock Mallet DF-SM76 Reduces Damage They’re supplied with built-in welding programs for easy setup, and are ready for a

Other Posts

Repairify Announces Executive Leadership Changes

The company has named Craig Edmonds as president of asTech among other executive appointments.

TPMS: Are Retrofits in Your Future?

Installing a retrofit kit can be performed with the tools and equipment you already own and use on a daily basis.

Tire tread
PRT Launches 22 New Products on Complete Strut Assemblies

The new items come to expand the PRT portfolio in North American Market and represents more than 12 Million vehicles in new coverage.

Autel to Bring OEM Repair Data to its Ultra Series Tablets

Autel partners with MOTOR Information Systems to provide an improved experience for users and more streamlined access to OEM repair information using MOTOR’s TruSpeed Repair.