If you’re a car owner, you’ve probably heard of the term “wheel hub.” But what exactly is it, and what does it do? In this article, we’ll explore the wheel hub of a car wheel, its types and linear bearings, the causes and signs of hub damage, and when it’s time to replace the hub.
What is a Wheel Hub?
A hub is a central part of a car’s wheel assembly that connects the wheel to the axle. It’s the point where the wheel rotates around and is responsible for transmitting the power from the engine to the wheels. The hub also supports the weight of the car and provides a mounting surface for the brake components.
Where is the Wheel Hub?
The hub is located at the center of the wheel assembly and is attached to the axle via a set of bearings. The bearings allow the hub to rotate freely around the axle, which, in turn, allows the wheel to spin.
Photo of a car wheel hub taken from autodoc.co.uk
What Does a Wheel Hub Do?
As mentioned earlier, the hub plays a critical role in the car’s wheel assembly. It serves as the central point where the wheel rotates around and is responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the wheels. The hub also provides a mounting surface for the brake components, which is crucial for the car’s braking system.
Types of Wheel Hub and Bearings
There are two main types of hubs: the driven hub and the non-driven hub. The driven hub is connected to the drive axle and transmits power from the engine to the wheels. The non-driven hub, on the other hand, is not connected to the drive axle and is responsible for supporting the weight of the car.
The two main types of bearings used in wheel hubs are the tapered roller bearing and the ball bearing. The tapered roller bearing is commonly used in rear-wheel-drive vehicles, while the ball bearing is used in front-wheel-drive cars.
Causes and Signs of Wheel Hub Damage
Over time, the wheel hub can wear out or become damaged due to a variety of reasons, such as excessive heat, moisture, or impact. Some common signs of hub damage include:
- Grinding noise coming from the wheels
- Excessive vibration in the steering wheel
- Uneven tire wear
- Loose or wobbly wheel
- Reduced fuel efficiency
How to Replace a Car Wheel Hub
Replacing a car wheel hub is not an easy task, and it’s always recommended to seek the help of a professional mechanic. However, if you’re a DIY enthusiast, here are the basic steps involved in replacing a car wheel hub:
Step 1: Park the car on a flat surface and secure it with wheel chocks.
Step 2: Remove the wheel and tire assembly from the damaged hub.
Step 3: Remove the brake caliper, rotor, and other brake components from the hub.
Step 4: Remove the axle nut and cotter pin that secure the hub to the axle.
Step 5: Use a hub puller to remove the old hub from the axle.
Step 6: Install the new hub onto the axle and torque the axle nut to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Step 7: Reinstall the brake components, wheel and tire assembly, and other components that were removed earlier.
Step 8: Test drive the car to ensure that the new hub is installed correctly and that there are no issues with the braking system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the wheel hub of a car wheel is a crucial component of the wheel assembly that plays a significant role in transmitting power from the engine to the wheels. Understanding the types of hubs and bearings, causes and signs of hub damage, and when to replace the hub can help you maintain the safety and performance of your car.
Sources of information:
https://www.autodoc.co.uk/info/wheel-bearings-why-they-make-noise-and-how-much-it-costs-replace-them
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