Checklist For Preventing Wheel End Issues

Never spin a bearing with compressed air. The rolling elements may be forcefully expelled.

It's also recommended that the cup and cone be purchased from the same manufacturer, preferable as a matched set. That's because components purchased from two different manufacturers may have:

• Incompatible internal bearing profiles.
• Overall bearing width differences due to inconsistent tolerances.
• Different bearing ratings.
• Surface finish variations due to different manufacturing processes and technologies.
• Variations in steel quality, type, cleanliness and processing.
• Variations in worldwide bearing manufacturing quality.

In general, the best maintenance intervals for an operation will vary by fleet. To determine what's best for your operation, first look at the maintenance schedules and service life experiences for your truck/trailer wheel ends (brakes, hub caps, tires, seals, lubricant, bearings, spindle nuts, etc.). Then, choose components with performance records that complement your preventative maintenance programs.

If a component fails or requires unscheduled service, a shorter inspection interval may be required.

Warning: Failure to follow these warnings could create a risk of serious injury. Proper maintenance and handling practices are critical. Failure to follow installation instructions and to maintain proper lubrication can result in equipment failure.

Be advised: This article is not intended to substitute for the specific recommendations of your equipment suppliers. Every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this writing, but no liability is accepted for errors, omissions or for any other reason.