Tech Tips

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Transmission

Front Wheel Bearing Damage

HERE'S THE SCENARIO:
Your new engine is ready to install. While you're at it, you decide to update the pressure plate and clutch disc. So, to make your life easier you lift both the engine and transaxle out together. As you move the assembly outside of the garage, you forgot that you needed to leave room in the garage for the other car, so you roll the car out into the driveway. Later you install the new engine and transaxle assembly, then you're off for a test drive. That roar you hear is a front wheel bearing. How did that happen? Nothing was wrong before.

HERE'S THE PROBLEM:
When a front wheel drive vehicle is rolled without a stub axle installed in the front wheel bearing there is nothing to prevent the weight of the vehicle from ovalizing the bearing. To prevent this, use an old outer CV joint in the wheel bearing. Install washer (if equipped) and nut and tighten nut to specs. Now you can roll away without fear of destroying your bearings.

Source: BWC Catalog Researcher, Lewis Dubos

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