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Why are wheel and axle
bearings so important ? Here are some tips and secrets |
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Front Hubs Bearing |
Since a long time ago engineers found that everything between the engine and the tires (drive train) is capable of robbing horsepower that could otherwise be sent to the rear wheels. The grease left in the wheel and axle bearings tend to solidified and less effective as a lubricant after certain period of hard use. In this effect the bearings is not spinning more freely due to extra friction created. Eventually this will rob some horsepower from your engine. The secret is you can free up the horsepower you already have and gain that tenth or two of a second with routine bearing maintenance and care. |
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As shown in the illustration above, you can use a syringe to inject some lubricant into the bearings internal. If you are a perfectionist you can buy expensive MIL Spec lubricant that can best eliminate any friction. However, anything from engine oil to high temperature grease can be use or injected to the bearings. These bearings are sealed on both sides so you have to work the needle between the seal and the bearing race, you will know when you get the needle in. You can do this to your kart every week. It really keeps the bearing spinning free and the dirt out. The problem with bearings is not so much the dirt but the water and dirt combined from washing the kart. Dirt after washing will settle to the bottom of the bearing. I recommend not washing the kart with the wheels on. Water get trapped in the bearings and creates rust. Rust will ruin a bearing quicker than dirt. The bearings are so small that unless you had them in your hand trying to spin them, you will never notice any problems. So when you wash the kart remove the front wheels. Keep the hubs or the wheels dry. By adding a little lube to the bearings the lube will always start coming out during spinning but will also keep the dust out and they will never rust. Also do this service every time after you race or practice in the rain. And always check your hub/wheels bearings for wear and slack that could hinder your chassis setup. Compiled by: Rosedi
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