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Hub bearings form the crucial link between the wheel and chassis, and no car has ever been produced without them. Among other functions, these devices allow a wheel to rotate freely on its mounting point.
Construction
Hub bearings are composed of an outer casing, which is usually bolted to a stationary axle or wheel spindle. This "hub" contains a set of inner and outer roller bearings on which the wheel axles rides.
Lubrication
Smaller hub bearings can sometimes utilize a dry lubricant such as graphite. However, automotive parts usually use some sort of molybdenum-based grease.
Rotor Mount
Hub bearings also serve as mounts for the wheel studs. The studs pass through the brake rotor or drum, and allow the wheel to be bolted to the car.
Material
The hub's roller bearings are usually made of stainless steel. They can also be titanium or titanium alloy in racing applications.
Failure
A failing hub bearing will often emit an intermittent squeal or a grinding vibration that can be felt through the floorboards.
Source:
Resource:
Bearing Replacement Video
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