Aftermarket March 2022

D ayco introduced its first wheel bearing kits last year, and continues to expand its offering. Commenting on the range, National Sales Manager Steve Carolan said: “The introduction of wheel bearing kits marked a significant, but natural step for Dayco, to add safety related products alongside its established drive systems expertise. The Dayco range encompasses Generation 1, 2 and 3 technology, as well as bearings integrated into the brake disc, reflecting the complexion of the current European vehicle parc and thereby providing workshops with the depth of range they need day-to-day.” Significant step Steve continued: “To underline the ongoing development of the range, more than 30 additional part numbers, primarily integrated disc/bearings, have been introduced since the launch of the programme last year. These additions are predominantly for French applications, such as multiple generations of Renault Clio, Espace, Kangoo, Laguna, Megane, Modus and Trafic, likewise PSA models including 207, 2008, 307, 308, 3008, C3, C4, DS3, DS4, Berlingo and Partner, which tend to favour the disc/bearing combination as the braking solution for the rear of these vehicles. “The kits also include fitting instructions and technical tips that can be viewed via a QR Code on the product packaging, to ensure they are installed correctly and in the most efficient manner. Naturally, Dayco is also concerned with the practical processes at the wholesaler level, so factors can be assured of quick and accurate part identification as the full range of products are hosted on the Dayco Webcat.” Steve added: “Dayco’s wheel bearing programme not only provides the ideal replacement solution for the professional technician, but also allows factors to offer a wider range, from a single trusted supplier.” For more information visit: www.daycoaftermarket.com Correct First Line’s Global Marketing Director, Jon Roughley offered advice around the latest advancements in the development of bearings. “One of the key innovations in modern automotive engineering has been to wheel and axle assemblies, and the correct fitment of the latest Generation 3 wheel bearing hubs is important for the vehicle’s safe operation and also supports the running of various ADAS features. “Wheel bearing issues can usually be diagnosed by identifying grinding noises from the axle assemblies. An ABS sensor can fail due to a bearing issue, which can in turn cause the respective dashboard light to illuminate, and 48 AFTERMARKET MARCH 2022 BEARINGS www.aftermarketonline.net All the latest on bearings: New developments, tips and tricks on fitment, diagnosing problems BEARING DOWN drivers may experience excessive play in the steering wheel. The latest Generation 3 wheel bearings, which are now the most prevalent wheel bearings found on the front axle, contain the bearing within the hub assembly, with an integrated ABS sensor. “Traditionally, front or driven wheels have utilised a splined drive that fits into a corresponding hole on the wheel bearing. However, with the increase in larger diameter wheels, and the consequent increase in load, a new type of bearing has been designed where the splines are now situated on the back of the bearing and locate onto matching splines or teeth on the CV joint. The advantage of this design is that it allows greater torque transmission and ease of fitment.” Recommended First Line has issued bearings fitting tips to technicians. Jon observed: “Firstly, use a torque wrench and not an impact wrench on any of the fastenings of a Generation 3 bearing, as this can cause damage to the bearing hub assembly. Secondly, always tighten to the correct tolerance, especially on the axle nut to ensure correct preload, as over or under tightening can be a cause of the bearing failing. “Finally, if the bearing has a connected ABS loom, take note of the routing and ensure that when a new bearing is installed, it is mounted and routed in the same way. Active sensor bearings (ASB) have been around for many years, but it is often not appreciated how many driver assistance systems rely on them, including ABS, electronic stability control (ESC), and hill start assist systems. It’s therefore imperative that the bearing is fitted with the ASB encoder facing inwards towards the sensor, but also that care is taken not to damage the encoder whilst checking or fitting, as even dropping or knocking the wheel bearing can cause damage to the encoder, rendering the bearing unsafe to fit.” For more information, visit www.firstline.co.uk Above: Generation 3 bearings from First Line