Wheel Hub function

Although the wheel hub is small, it is an important part of the entire vehicle. They provide smooth wheel rotation while supporting a lot of the vehicle's weight. The hub is located in the center of the wheel and is the component that connects the wheel to the axle or suspension system of the vehicle or cart. The hub contains the wheel bearings that allow the wheel to rotate with as little friction as possible.

The function of the wheel hub depends on the type of vehicle or van you have. However, regardless of the type of wheel, the hub always provides support for the wheel connected to the axle. The wheel hub carries most of the weight of the vehicle and distributes the weight evenly over the rest of the wheel for a stable, balanced ride.

Hubs also allow the wheels to move smoothly and move the vehicle in the direction you want. For more complex wheel systems, the brake discs will be mounted on the wheel hub. This setup creates friction when the calipers and pads clamp the brake disc, which helps slow or stop the entire vehicle.

wheel hub

The main responsibility of the wheel hub is to securely connect the wheel to the axle while housing the wheel bearings. Generally speaking, the piece has the shape of a disk, with a slightly protruding central part and several studs. Wheel bearing failure can cause wheel hub wear, making your vehicle extremely difficult to control.

wheel studs

These components are important components of the wheel hub assembly. Wheel studs are the components that connect the wheel to the hub assembly. On top of the wheel stud is the brake rotor and wheel, and the wheel nut holds the wheel securely in place.

wheel bearings

Wheel bearings are critical to wheel hub assemblies because they allow the wheels to rotate. Wheel bearings consist of a metal ring with steel balls or some rolling elements, inner and outer rings, bearing cages, bearing seals and cages. Together, these components fit into the hub and connect to the wheel to allow the wheel to rotate. Although this is a very small part of the wheel hub assembly, if the wheel bearing is damaged, the rest of the wheel can be in trouble. Since the wheel bearing is a small part that is subject to a lot of force, it is the part of the wheel that is most likely to need to be replaced.

Oil seal

This is a rubber seal that prevents dirt, water, and other debris from entering the wheel bearings. While preventing harmful substances from entering, oil seals also keep beneficial substances (grease) within the bearing assembly. This prevents premature bearing damage.

Dust cap

There is a hole in the hub assembly on the outer edge of the bearing assembly. This poses the problem of dust and other harmful substances potentially getting in, and needed grease potentially leaking out of the openings. Dust caps are a simple solution for extending the life of your hub assembly.