BEARING OPPORTUNITIES
FIRST LINE highlights the technological evolution of wheel bearings and the opportunities that follow .
Wheel hub technology is developing quickly to cater for the everincreasing requirements needed to control the modern vehicle and keep it safe . With weight saving and safety being the driving forces , manufacturers are constantly looking at new ways to re-engineer the system . First Line continues to stay abreast of these trends to ensure that motor factors and installers are well-prepared , when the technologies hit the aftermarket .
THE EVOLUTION OF TECHNOLOGY
Wheel bearing designs have changed significantly over the past decade . The original single-row ball / taper roller bearings have undergone three generations of evolution to cater for the advancement of automotive technology today .
KNOW YOUR GENERATIONS
DUAL ROW ANGULAR CONTACT ( DAC ) BALL / DUAL ROW TAPER ROLLER BEARING
Suitable for both driven and non-driven axle vehicles like Ford Ka ( 1996-2008 ) and Volkswagen Golf ( 1974-2004 ).
SINGLE FLANGE HUB
The drive flange is integrated with the inner race . It must be pressed in on the outer race ( special tool required ) and can be used with or without a locking ring . These are found in popular models of Ford Focus ( 2004-2010 ) and Volvo C30 ( 2007-2013 ).
GENERATION 0
GENERATION 2
GENERATION 3
GENERATION 1
GENERATION 2 . 1
SINGLE ROW BALL BEARING
Typically used in solid ( driven ) axle applications like the early Ford Transits ( 1975-1991 ) and MG Midget ( 1961-1979 ). Thus , not commonly used now .
SINGLE ROW TAPER BEARING
Used in non-driven axle applications such as Volkswagen Polo ( Rear ) ( 1976-2000 ).
SINGLE FLANGE HUB
The bearing has either a wheel / drive flange or mounting flange integrated with a dual row ball / taper bearing . These are commonly found in the Audi A4 ( 2007-2016 ) or Honda Civic ( 1995-2011 ).
DOUBLE FLANGE HUB
The latest designs have either a double row ball / taper roller bearing and usually come with an ABS sensor built in . In some instances , the races have different diameters or even different types of element ( e . g . ball or roller ). A larger outer race allows the fitment of more rolling elements to improve stiffness . The latest of the generation 3 hubs reduces brake caliper ‘ knockback ’ to improve braking performance . These are fitted in vehicles such as the Vauxhall Insignia ( 2008-2017 ).
BEARING EXPERIENCE IN THE BOX
First Line ensures that they provide the aftermarket with premium quality bearings that are manufactured in accordance to the highest of standards .
To help ensure that replacements are made correctly and precisely , First Line provides complete kit solutions rather than single bearings . As standard , First Line wheel bearing kits include necessary components which may not be included in the OE or competitor equivalent . The wheel bearings are pre-lubricated and may come with an additional grease sachet , where applicable .
First Line ’ s commitment towards providing comprehensive and easyto-follow solutions are reflected in the extensive catalogue . Containing technical data , cross references and images of kit contents that correspond to vehicle models , the catalogue makes it easy to identify and install the part .
COMPREHENSIVE WARRANTY
Equipped with a 2-year / 24,000-mile warranty , First Line wheel bearings are available from FPS via same / next-day delivery . For more information , please speak to your local FPS representative .
14 WHEEL BEARINGS VITAL NEWS ISSUE 48