September 2021

C ommenting on the work that goes into producing Schaeffler’s FAG branded components, Jeff Earl, Marketing Communications Manager at Schaeffler (UK) said: “Both on and off the vehicle and in partnership with VM engineers, it can take anywhere between two and five years for a new bearing to be perfected, approved and fitted as original equipment.” On the risk posed by counterfeit bearings, Jeff said: “Technicians fitting counterfeit or cheap copied bearings are not only jeopardising the reputation of their workshop, but also putting the occupants of the vehicle and other road users at risk. That’s not all: an OE wheel bearing is designed and manufactured to stringent VM tolerances, specifications and quality standards, and not strictly adhering to these design and engineering parameters can add additional stresses to any of the components which make-up the corner assembly of the vehicle – an incredibly dangerous scenario that must be avoided.” Fitting tips Commenting on bearing fitting, Jeff said: “While the technician may have the right part in the right quality, it’s also vital they know how to fit it properly. Remember that a wheel bearing is a precision part, with tolerance specifications as low as eight microns; A human hair is 50. So, cleanliness is paramount. It is therefore extremely important to avoid any form of contamination. Wheel bearing types can be identified by their design generation; Gen.1, Gen.2 or Gen.3. Gen.1 are just simple plain bearings, whereas Gen.2 bearings incorporate a flange which bolts to the hub, and Gen.3 are the very latest bolt-on complete hub units with a twin flange. Some sub-designs need special attention; Gen.2.1 bearings require a specific and precise installation procedure where the bearing must be pressed into the hub using a special tool which applies force to the outer race only. Any force applied to the inner race during this process can cause damage leading to bearing failure. The special tool clamps also correctly align and fix the bearing snap-ring into the hub, which is essential in ensuring an accurate installation. If the snap ring doesn’t click into place in the hub recess the bearing will slowly work its way out, eventually fouling against the CV joint. “It’s also important that technicians take extra care when installing bearings with active sensor rings, which must be protected from damage as the sensitive magnetic teeth are responsible for providing the data for many safety critical systems. Avoid laying the bearing on a workshop bench with the encoder face down, which may contaminate or damage it.” Jeff continued: “While incorrect fitting can, and most likely will, cause problems, there are other factors that can also create issues – one of which is driving style. Bearings can be damaged or wear prematurely if motorists continually fail to avoid potholes, drive their vehicle up and 46 AFTERMARKET SEPTEMBER 2021 BEARINGS www.aftermarketonline.net All the latest on bearings, including fitment tips and more BEARING ALL Fig. 1 Fig. 2 Fig. 3 Fig. 4