Strut support bearing. Replacing the shock absorber strut support bearing: when is it needed and how to do it Lubricant for the strut support bearings

How to replace a support bearing with your own hands 🚩 Repair and service

The presence of clicks when turning the steering wheel in the area of ​​the front wheel struts is the first sign of wear on the support bearings. This malfunction must be eliminated as quickly as possible, otherwise there is a high probability of failure of part of the slewing bearing mechanism.

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You will need

• - a set of metalwork tools;
• - spring ties;
• - a special wrench for unscrewing the nuts on the racks;
• - steering tip remover.

Instructions

In most cases, the procedure for replacing the support bearing can be done with your own hands and with little time. In different models of domestic and imported car brands, the sequence of replacement operations does not differ much; in general, several most important stages can be identified. Before carrying out work, the machine must be placed on a pit or overpass, first gear and the parking brake must be engaged, instead of which you can use wheel chocks. It is also necessary to remove the negative terminal from the battery. First, you will need to jack up the wheel whose rotating support mechanism has a fault. Then you need to release the CV joint nut by straightening the retaining ring whiskers. The nut needs to be twisted, for which the wheel will have to be blocked by temporarily draining the jack or pressing the brake pedal. When the nut can be turned by hand, the wheel will need to be removed. Now you need to disconnect the turning mechanism: pull the cotter pin out of the steering tip nut and twist it. You will also need to knock out the finger: rest the punch against it and lightly tap with a hammer. Next, you need to rip off the two nuts on the ball joint, which may require additional force, and twist them off the stud.

It is important to pay special attention to the braking system. The hose must be released from the mounts on the rack, allowing it to move freely. Next, you will need to unscrew the caliper nuts and remove it, installing it on a substrate so that the hose is not stretched.

It is necessary to break off the nut securing the stabilizer link in the glass and ensure the CV joint moves freely, but do not remove it completely. After unscrewing the three small nuts securing the strut support to the glass, the stabilizer along with the spring must be removed through the wheel arch, while completely removing the CV joint. After removing the strut, you need to tighten the spring and completely twist the top nut, holding the support bearing housing with a wrench. Now the faulty part can be replaced with a new one and the upper nut can be tightened with a large torque. After replacement, the rack must be returned to its place, guiding the support into the installation holes with one hand, and ensuring that the CV joint splines fall into place with the other. You can remove the ties from the spring immediately after replacing the support bearing, or after installing the strut in place. After completing the work, the ball joint is installed back, it is also necessary to connect the steering rod with a finger and replace the wheel.

note

The nuts that secure the support in the glass must be tightened with a small torque and extreme caution.

Helpful advice

When carrying out this type of repair work, it is recommended to replace the CV joint nut to prevent it from seizing due to corrosion.

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How to replace a support bearing with your own hands

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Front strut support bearing

The suspension elements of a modern car include many different parts - springs, shock absorbers, levers and brackets, bearings, etc. Each of them has its own purpose, but only the good condition of all suspension components creates conditions for the safe movement of the car. All of them can serve, with severe wear, as sources of extraneous sounds - knocks, creaks, etc. One of these elements that directly affects the car's steering is the front shock absorber support bearing.

What is a support bearing needed for?

To understand the role of the support bearing in the design of the car, we will have to touch a little on the suspension and its structure, in particular we will talk about the front one. The same VAZ 2110 has an independent front suspension, it uses hydraulic struts. You can see what one of them looks like in the photo.

The purpose of such a front strut is, as part of a shock absorber, to dampen vibrations that occur during movement in the suspension spring and ensure the reliability of its operation. The lower end of the strut is attached to the steering cam, and the upper end is attached to the car body. What it looks like is shown schematically in the photo below.

Any support bearings that are part of the front shock absorber strut are, by their design, a variant of a rolling bearing. If you try to determine why a support bearing is needed as part of the front shock absorber strut, then its purpose can be formulated as follows: to provide a movable connection between the shock absorber and the car body.

How does a support bearing work and what does it look like?

What the support bearing itself looks like can be seen in the photo below.

Several different types exist and are used in cars, including the VAZ 2110. It should be noted that the support bearing can be:

1. With built-in ring (outer or inner). When installing it, the use of clamping flanges is not required; this design provides installation holes. Such a bearing can be used to rotate parts using both the outer and inner rings, and its photo is shown below:
2. With detachable outer ring (photo below). With this design, the inner ring is connected to the body, and the outer ring is separated.
3. With detachable inner ring (shown in photo)
4. Single split bearing (see photo). Its characteristics are the same as those given above, but the ring has greater rigidity.

A little clarification is necessary here. The name itself - support bearing - suggests that it acts as a kind of support, on the VAZ 2110, and on any front shock absorber strut, it is located directly at the point of connection to the car body. This arrangement suggests that the support is capable of withstanding axial loads, rather than radial ones.

How to check the strut support bearing

While restraining the rebound of the front shock absorber, the support bearing experiences significant impacts, so it is necessary to monitor its technical condition. A sign of a faulty front shock absorber support bearing is a knocking sound that occurs when turning the steering wheel or overcoming a small obstacle. As a rule, it is advisable to check the condition of the support bearing, for example on a VAZ 2110, or any other car, after at least twenty thousand miles.

This is quite simple to do, and the verification itself is not difficult. To check the support, you need to grab it with your hand and rock the car. If at the same time there is a knocking sound, then the support must be changed.

As a rule, questions do not arise as to why the shock absorber wears out and why the bearing knocks; the main problem is finding new replacement parts. The fact is that supports are produced by several manufacturers, but, according to reviews from car enthusiasts, many of them are not of the best quality.

A worn support, in addition to knocking, leads to disturbances in the wheel alignment settings, and this ultimately affects traffic safety, and also provokes accelerated wear of the shock absorber strut. For drivers who stubbornly do not want to hear a knock, check the serviceability of the front support shock absorber, sometimes it happens that it breaks completely, and the strut breaks through the hood of the car. And this already results in much greater financial costs; the iron needs to be straightened (changed) and painted. Therefore, under no circumstances should you ignore knocking noises from under the hood.

The support bearing of the VAZ 2110 is knocking, what should I do - change it, repair it?

Without directly touching on the work procedure, it must be said that a worn front shock absorber support can only be replaced. There can be no talk of any repairs; there is a knocking sound - the bearing needs to be changed. But such a replacement can be made in different ways. And although this procedure is quite labor-intensive, it can be done independently.

With the first method, you need to remove the entire rack along with the levers and everything that is attached to it. With this approach, the wheel alignment settings are saved. Another approach involves disconnecting the strut from the steering cam, after which everything else can be removed.

Additional information about racks and supports, their operation, selection and different brands, as well as replacement, can be read in the articles previously published on our website, and watch the video.

The support is an unnoticeable part of the car as long as it is in good working order and not worn out. It notifies the driver of the same VAZ 2110 or any other car about the need to replace it, making knocking and clicking noises when turning and overcoming uneven roads. In this case, there is only one way out - check and identify the source of the knocking, and then change the defective support, or the entire rack.

Support bearing. Main models of support bearings for cars:: SYL.ru

Today, in order to be able to control the movement or trajectory of a car, special elastic and damping means are used - shock absorbers. They are almost the most important part of the car's front suspension system. The shock absorber strut reliably protects the car from impacts or shocks when driving on uneven roads. In order to ensure stable operation and protection of the shock absorber itself, there is such a unit as the support of the shock absorber strut. The latter is attached with the lower part to the steering knuckle, and the upper part to the mudguard of the car hood.

What is a journal bearing?

This small, but nevertheless very important part is an integral part of the shock absorber support. At its core, this is one of the types of rolling bearings. Their widespread use in modern cars has a number of reasons. After all, the design of such a bearing implies high performance characteristics, ease of installation and maintenance, the ability to withstand combined loads and versatility. The part is directly involved in the process of damping and amortization. The main task of this type of bearing is to provide a movable connection between the shock absorber and the car body; in addition, it also affects the accuracy of wheel angle adjustment.

Bearing design

There are few differences between a regular bearing and a journal bearing. The main thing is the difference in the thickness of the outer ring. Also, as rolling elements, it uses not balls, but rollers, which are separated from each other and additionally protected by a separator. They are arranged so that each roller is perpendicular to the previous one. The advantage of this arrangement is that a single roller can take on a large load from any direction (including radial axial and moment load).

Main types of support bearings

There are not many types of support type bearings that can be used in a modern car. It is worth talking in more detail about each of them. There are four in total:

With a built-in inner or outer ring - this design does not require clamping flanges, since it has special holes for mounting. Also, to ensure high rotation accuracy and eliminate the possibility of installation influence, the design contains gaskets. This type is universal, as it can be used when it is necessary to rotate both the outer and inner rings;

With detachable inner ring. The system is relevant in cases where there is a need to use only the outer ring, while ensuring the accuracy of its rotation. Everything is quite simple - the outer ring is attached to the body, and the inner ring is removed;

With detachable outer ring. This design is completely opposite in functionality and purpose to the previous one - it is used when it is necessary to rotate only the inner ring;

Single split bearing. Its device is simple - the only ring is divided at one point. Thus, the accuracy of its rotation increases and the rigidity increases significantly.

Possible problems

Of course, the suspension, like any other component of the car, can be subject to malfunctions. If the strut breaks, the support bearing will need to be repaired or even replaced. What needs to be done to avoid the possibility of a breakdown? How to determine that there is something generally wrong with the suspension?

Initially, it is worth understanding what the driver (and not only him) faces from a faulty shock absorber support. The main problem is that the wheel alignment changes, and this malfunction entails a chain of others, such as wear of the shock absorber strut, which does not have the best effect on driving safety. Those who do not want to pay attention to such trifles as knocks or other extraneous sounds in the suspension will be surprised when the strut breaks through the hood. And this will entail large financial costs, since you will have to not only change the rack, but also return the car to its previous appearance - level the body and repaint it.

The suspension is a very specific part of the car; its problems can only be identified while driving. What are the first signs of a breakdown? A signal that not everything is going smoothly with the suspension is a characteristic and easily recognizable knock. When it appears, you should first make sure that the shock absorber is securely fastened and does not move away. To do this, you need to check the fastening of the support. If it needs to be replaced, then naturally both the damper and the bearing will have to be changed.

To prevent damage to the bearing itself, you need to check its condition. This procedure is usually carried out every 20 thousand kilometers of a car, and after reaching the 100 thousand mark, the front support bearing must be replaced. This urgent need is due to the fact that this small part absorbs all impacts and restrains the stroke of the shock absorber and, therefore, wears out quickly.

Ways to solve the problem

In any case, there is no question of repairing a damaged bearing - only replacement. This procedure is labor-intensive, but not complicated. Any driver can do it with his own hands. But the support bearing is replaced in several ways. The first one is a bit strenuous as it involves removing the entire rack. But its advantage is that all wheel alignment settings are saved. The second method is somewhat simpler - you just need to separate the strut from the steering cam, and then remove everything else.

The difficulty of replacement depends on the make and model of the car. For example, replacing a VAZ support bearing is not difficult even for an inexperienced driver. But with foreign-made cars, difficulties may arise.

The cost of a new part directly depends on the car manufacturer and its brand. In any case, you should not skimp on repairs and buy a new support bearing. The price for such a common part will not be very high.

Prevention of breakdowns

Malfunctions are something that can always be avoided if you know what to do. How can you increase the life of the suspension to the maximum?

The first, and probably the most important rule is to take good care of your car. Even the most reliable machine will quickly fail if you use it thoughtlessly and carelessly. As for the suspension specifically, you should not subject it to excessive loads. Driving on an uneven road, and even more so on one with potholes, at high speed will clearly not improve its condition.

An equally important factor is timely and high-quality service. Driving for a long time with a faulty suspension can damage the entire car. Moreover, as already mentioned, it is unsafe. Therefore, at the first sign of problems, appropriate work must be carried out. Simple operations such as bearing replacement or lubrication can be done by yourself, while more complex work requires the intervention of specialists. If the driver does not have experience in suspension repair, then it is not worth the risk, since improper repair is another cause of breakdown.

Results

The suspension is a system that does not tolerate careless treatment. And the support bearing of the strut is almost its basis. Therefore, the driver should always pay special attention to this detail.

How to lubricate the strut support bearing (lubrication, diagnostics, replacement)

The suspension of vehicles and special equipment includes many parts. Only the good condition of the components guarantees uninterrupted operation. Moreover, each of them has its own purpose. The support bearing is one of the irreplaceable parts.

What are support bearings needed for?

You must first understand how the suspension itself in cars works. In particular, the front one. All suspensions in modern cars are approximately the same, although each model has its own number of features. Front strut support bearings are not found on every vehicle. They will definitely be where the shock absorber or shock absorber strut turns with the steering knuckle. Thanks to the bearing, the shock absorber rotates freely in its upper support. There is no unnecessary friction or resistance. The strut support bearings are located at the top, above the front spring. The shock absorber rod passes through this part. Bearings can be prefabricated or made as one, single structure. But it is in this part of the car that the shock absorber is always attached to the front side member of the body.

Position of the support

At its core, this part is a rolling bearing.

And it comes with a wide clip. The structure experiences very serious loads, so the strength parameter becomes especially important for it. This is especially true for traveling on uneven roads.

Greases. How are they better than other materials?

There are four main types of lubricants available on the modern market.

• Solid.
• Plastic.
• Liquid.
• Gaseous.

In terms of their properties, greases occupy an intermediate position between solid and liquid. They increase the performance and operational efficiency of many mechanisms. Prevents the appearance of further signs of destruction on the metal and extends the service life of components. It is easy to lubricate the part with them.

Grease

From the point of view of chemical properties, greases are structured dispersions. They are formed by thickeners in lubricating oil. The properties of the final product largely depend on how the thickener itself behaves. For each specific unit, its own lubrication option is selected. There are several points to consider when choosing the right material.

1. The nature of friction.
2. Material of mating surfaces.
3. Possibility of exposure to moisture.
4. Specific loads.
5. Operating temperature in the unit.

As for the greases themselves, they have the following advantages.

1. Increases the operating resources of the unit.
2. They simplify the design of mechanisms, which is facilitated by the possibility of inserting them into vertical, inclined units.
3. Low specific consumption.
4. Valuable performance properties for those who decide to lubricate a part.

Support bearings and lubrication

The strut support bearings are designed based on their roller counterparts. Inside, cylindrical rollers are located transverse to each other. Each subsequent roller is located perpendicular to the previous one. It is thanks to this design that the bearings are able to withstand heavy loads. It doesn’t matter which directions these loads fall on.

Support device

Lubrication is needed to reduce wear and friction of parts.

The element experiences severe mechanical stress, so the lubricant itself must have high colloidal and mechanical stability.

High indicators of welding load and critical load also become important.

Bearing replacement instructions

It is important not only to purchase the correct bearing protection product. You also need to be able to replace the part itself if necessary. And changing the oil itself in the hubs should not be difficult for drivers. We need to prepare not only the tools themselves, but also some additional materials.

• Container with clean water.
• Clean rags.
• New seals and nuts.
• Flushing liquid.
• The replacement fluid itself.

Oil seals can last much less than the bearings themselves. Therefore, it is advisable to change them immediately, along with the liquid, removing the part itself. According to technical regulations, the replacement period for parts is every ten thousand kilometers. Or during every technical inspection. We use clean rags to get rid of traces of dust and dirt on internal structures. Working surfaces must be thoroughly cleaned of traces of old grease. We coat all cleaned parts with new oil. Only after this do we pour liquid between the bearings themselves. It is better to tighten the nuts properly when everything is put in place.

Preventing bearing failures

Failure to protect support bearings in a timely manner can lead to very serious consequences. Including road accidents. Prevention is easy to do yourself.

• You need to treat the vehicle with care.
• Separately, you need to ensure that there is no sand or dirt inside the part itself.
• Timely lubrication.

The support bearing fails because the wheel hits uneven roads. Because of this, the shock absorber and spring are fully compressed. Therefore, the main impact force falls on the bearing. It is usually equipped with a plastic case in which there are two guide rings for the balls. In case of strong impacts, it is their traces that remain on the guides. Then the bearing jams, and with constant impacts the rings begin to wobble.

Broken prop

One bearing can withstand loads of up to 12 thousand kilograms. On a car, this weight is distributed, approximately 300-400 kilograms for each support. But the workload increases many times under mechanical loads and shocks. Because of this, wear becomes faster.

How to check the serviceability of support bearings?

A knock that occurs when overcoming a small obstacle or while turning the steering wheel is the first sign that the bearing is faulty. It is advisable to check the condition of the bearing every 20 thousand kilometers. To check the support, just rock the car, grabbing the part. It definitely needs to be changed if an extraneous sound is heard.

A little more about the appearance and design of the support bearing

Support bearings have their own characteristics depending on what type they are.

1. With built-in ring. It can be external or internal. There is no need to use clamping flanges when installing this part. There are special holes to solve this issue. Such bearings help parts rotate freely, using an outer or inner ring.
2. With detachable outer ring. In this case, the inner ring is connected to the body.
3. With an inner ring separated from the body.
4. Single-split bearings. They have greater rigidity compared to previous models.

What else should you consider when choosing a lubricant?

In the production of lubricants, mineral oils are used as a base. The thickener is usually salts of fatty acids. Depending on the thickeners used, lubricants can be synthetic or natural.

Many different types of lubricant

In addition, all lubricants are divided into several types depending on a particular thickener.

• Silicone. Capable of operating at temperatures from minus 60 to plus 150 degrees.
• Lithium. They work well at temperatures below zero and are resistant to moisture. It is often helpful to treat sealed bearings that are operated in high temperature environments.
• Constalins or sodium. They lose viscosity after they absorb water. After combining with liquid, they form an emulsion. Bearing damage can occur due to these compounds being washed out. But with small amounts of liquid, the bearing is protected much better.
• Solid oils or calcium. The most common type of grease. It is not able to absorb water on its surface. But solid oil can only become a mechanical barrier.

As you can see, bearings are a common component in vehicles, one of the most critical. Rotation speed is the main parameter that must be taken into account when choosing a suitable lubricant. In order not to interfere with heat removal, it must have minimal viscosity. Then the rotation of the element will not be difficult. Low friction values ​​are also taken into account, as is the presence of antifriction and extreme pressure additives. They help increase the service life of the main part.

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What is the best way to lubricate roller bearings?

Each device or structure containing elements of various kinds of rotating elements must be equipped with bearing mechanisms. As a rule, this is an assembly element that is part of a stop or support. With the help of bearings, the entire moving part of the structure, such as, for example, a shaft or an axle, is supported. It is these elements that are designed to provide rolling or rotation, and also fix the position in space.

Clearly, different types of bearings are used for different structural elements, which are classified according to certain characteristics and characteristics. The most common are roller type bearings, which we will discuss further.

What are roller bearings and their types?

One should not ignore the fact that roller bearings, as a type of bearing, also have their own subtypes, which are specially designed for certain conditions. Roller bearings are used, as a rule, in very powerful mechanisms, such as rolling mills, for example, which are constantly subject to large radial loads. The cylinder here acts as a rolling body, and the point of contact lies along the line, due to which the entire load is distributed over the largest area, which allows the bearing to take on very large loads. They are more durable than ball bearings and, in addition to being used in the automotive industry, they are also used in metallurgy, aviation, heavy engineering and railway transport.

Other types of roller bearings are tapered, needle, spherical and cylindrical. Tapered bearings make up 40% of all roller bearings. They are widely used in the automotive industry, agricultural and railway transport. Needle bearings have a very small diameter rolling body, which allows them to be successfully used in small mechanisms. Spherical roller bearings compensate for misalignment without compromising their service life and still withstand extreme operating conditions. They are often used in industrial equipment.

Need for bearing lubrication

In order for the bearing to always function properly, it must be regularly and properly lubricated. If the lubricant is chosen incorrectly or its quantity is insufficient, this will inevitably lead to premature wear of the bearing and a reduction in its service life. The durability of the bearing mechanism depends on lubrication as well as on the quality of its parts. The role of the lubricant has increased much more strongly with increasing stress in the working friction units: increased rotational speeds, loads and, of course, temperature - this is the most significant factor that determines the durability of the lubricant in the bearing elements.

Lubricant for bearing units performs the following functions:

Formation of an elastic hydrodynamic oil film between the working surfaces. It softens the impacts of the rolling elements on the cage and rings, due to which the durability of the bearings increases and the noise during its operation is reduced;

Reduces friction during sliding between surfaces, which occurs due to their elastic deformation under the influence of loads arising during bearing operation;

Reduces sliding friction that occurs between bodies and rings with a separator;

Works as a cooling medium;

Evenly distributes the heat generated by the bearing during its operation over its entire area, thereby preventing the occurrence of extreme temperatures inside the bearing;

Protects the bearing mechanism from corrosion;

Prevents the penetration of dirt, dust and other foreign contaminants from the environment into the bearing.

What kind of lubricant should be used for roller bearings?

Bearings are mainly lubricated using greases and liquid oils. In special environments of ultra-high and ultra-low temperatures, solid lubricants and special friction elements are used. The main criteria by which lubricants are selected are the operating conditions of the bearings, namely:

Rotational speed;

Oscillations;

Environment.

Other selection criteria are:

Purity;

Low noise level;

Food tolerances;

Compliance with environmental requirements.

Liquid oil lubricant is undoubtedly the most preferable option. In all possible cases, it is better to use this type of lubricant. Their significant advantage over greases is better heat removal and removal of particles of worn elements from the friction unit, as well as excellent penetrating ability and excellent lubrication characteristics.

But still, if we compare these two types of lubricants, liquid oils also have their disadvantages: the structural costs that are necessary to keep them in the bearing assembly and the danger of their leakage. That is why they try to use plastic lubricants. Its main advantage, in comparison with liquid lubricants, is a longer operating time in friction units and, due to this, a reduction in construction costs. Almost all rolling bearings are lubricated with plastic lubricants.

How to choose the right lubricant for roller bearings?

Grease lubrication

Greases are ointment-like substances with composition and properties that are specifically designed to reduce wear and friction when the highest permissible temperature limit and time period is exceeded. Lubricants are hard, soft and semi-liquid, which consist of:

Thickeners;

Lubricating fluid that acts as a base oil;

Additives

The oil that is present in the lubricant is called base oil. The proportions of the base oil vary depending on the amount of thickener, what type it is and the possibility of its use in the lubricant. In most lubricants, the amount of base oil can range from 85% to 97%. How base oils are used:

Mineral oils;

Synthetic oils, including synthetic ester and silicone oils;

Vegetable oils.

The most widely used lubricants are those based on mineral and metal soap bases, as well as complexes of organic and inorganic thickeners. They can operate at temperatures up to 150 degrees Celsius.

Synthetic lubricants are much more effective than mineral lubricants in a number of qualities. This is one hundred percent resistance to oxidation, extreme temperature characteristics, resistance to liquid and gaseous reagents. The special synthetic oil, which plays a basic role in lubrication, as well as the thickener play a big role in determining the above properties. Ester synthetic oil contains acid, alcohol and water as a by-product. High alcohol esters with dibasic fatty acids form ester oils, which are used as synthetic lubricants and base oils. Such greases are often used at low temperatures and speeds.

Various silicone base oils contain methyl silicone, phenyl methyl silicone, chlorophenyl methyl silicone and the like. Silicone lubricants have excellent low-temperature characteristics. A serious drawback is the low loadability of the lubrication film of silicone grease. They are unsuitable for conditions in which metal slides on metal, as significant wear or corrugation can occur.

Recently, greases based on perfluorinated polyester oil (PFPE), which has exceptional thermal stability and complete non-toxicity, have become widespread. It can operate under complete vacuum conditions and is neutral to many chemicals. PFPE lubricants are developed exclusively for the following conditions:

Temperatures up to +300 degrees Celsius;

Deep vacuum with a residual pressure of less than 10 Pascals;

Aggressive environments;

Possible contact with organic food products;

Various polymers.

Vegetable oils are used very rarely as base oils in greases. Mainly in cases of need for resource renewal and the possibility of biological decay. Rapeseed oil is the most profitable and economically effective natural oil, serving as a base product. But the narrow temperature range limits the operational capabilities. Sunflower oil has a wider temperature range, but its cost is higher, which economically limits all possibilities for its use. To ensure that the cost of lubricants is not exorbitant, different types of oils are mixed: expensive and cheaper. But still, such experiments can lead to a deterioration in the performance properties of greases.

Thickeners are divided into two types: soap and non-soap and, depending on this, give the lubricant certain properties. Soap lubricants, in turn, are divided into complex and simple. Lubricants made from aluminum soaps and mineral oils are characterized by transparency, good adhesion and water resistance. Maximum application temperatures range from 600 to 1000 degrees Celsius.

Lubricating materials that are made from complex aluminum soaps and synthetic oils have high temperature stability, excellent water resistance, their temperature range is within 140 degrees, in some cases up to 300 degrees Celsius.

Oil lubrication

Liquid lubricants contain additives and base oils. It is these components that determine the functional characteristics of oils. The base oil affects the basic properties of the oil lubricant. But the effectiveness depends precisely on the nature of the additives. They improve the effectiveness of the base oil according to the following criteria:

High oxidative stability;

Corrosion protection;

Wear protection;

Excellent lubricating properties;

Wetting;

High emulsification ability;

Glide without jerking;

Dependence of viscosity on temperature.

But in some cases, the additives used can lead to not very good results. Liquid oils perform the following functions:

Heat sink;

Surface protection;

Removal of particles that cause wear.

Lubricating oils also perform specific tasks:

Anti-corrosion protection;

Neutral attitude towards materials;

Compliance with food industry requirements;

Thermal stability;

Rapid biodegradation.

Liquid lubricants include: fatty, mineral and synthetic oils. Fatty oils are not acceptable as a lubricant. Although they have a balanced lubricating effect, they are, alas, unstable at low temperatures and are also very sensitive to oxidizing agents. In areas of technical application, mineral oils are the leaders. But lately synthetics have taken the lead. So why are synthetic oils so popular? Let's look at their advantages:

They are quite resistant to oxidation;

Resistant to extreme temperatures;

Very durable, the lubricant lasts the entire life of the bearing.

How to disassemble a roller bearing for lubrication?

So, you have taken out the bearings, wiped them from the outside to remove all dirt, and now you need to find out what type of roller bearings you have: collapsible or non-separable. In separable bearings, the boot is secured with a split retaining ring. This ring is located in the groove of the outer race. You need to find exactly this cut of the ring and use a thin object to pick it up by one edge. After the ring has come out, the dust-proof film can be removed, which will provide access to the internal filling of the bearing. Now it is ready to be washed generously with lubricant.

If the dust protection plates on the bearings are not secured with a split locking element: rolled or pressed into the outer race, then they are not removable. They should be treated as follows: remove one boot from such a bearing, lubricate it and insert the open side into the wheel. One open side is enough for its proper maintenance, because on the other side dust does not fly in so much, although, of course, it depends on where the bearing you need is located. To properly flush the bearing you will need: To properly flush the bearings you will need:

Closable container;

A stick that exactly fits the inner diameter of the bearing hole so that it can be inserted there;

Gasoline for washing.

It is, of course, better to wash a roller bearing in a well-ventilated area or outside. So, get started. Place the disassembled bearings in a container of gasoline, then shake for a few minutes after some time. The old grease should go into solution. The resulting cloudy mass can be poured out. The procedure should be repeated several times until complete cleansing. Now, to make sure the bearing is clean, place it on a stick and dip it halfway into the container and roll it with your finger so that the rollers push out all the excess dirt. As soon as its rotation is free, you can put it on clean paper to dry, after which you can begin to lubricate it with peace of mind.

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What is the best way to lubricate bearings?

Bearings are special devices that can significantly reduce the friction force in various components of mechanisms. There are several types of such products, which differ in the environment of use and design features.

When purchasing bearings, it is very important to choose the correct type and size in order to obtain the optimal level of operation of the mechanism. More details about them can be found on the website ivva.ua.

Main characteristics of lubricants

The movement of bearings involves the occurrence of certain loads and temperatures. To ensure optimal operating conditions, lubricants should be selected according to the operating conditions of the mechanism.

In this case, you should pay attention to such indicators as:

• load level;
• temperature regime;
• rotation speed and presence of vibrations;
• the possibility of vibrations and other influences.

At the same time, you should also pay attention to the performance of a specific type of lubricant. Today there are a huge number of such products that differ not only in composition, but also in the environment of use.

Types of lubricants

Today, two categories of lubricants are among the most popular:

1. Liquid lubricants. Such materials are used in bearings of ABEC5 class (ABEC classification), but not lower. Moreover, the use of this type of substance requires periodic replenishment after traveling 60-100 km. It should be noted that bearings using such lubricants have a relatively short service life, which does not allow them to be used everywhere.
2. Plastic substances. They are produced on a lithium base, which allows them to achieve viscosity. The use of such substances leads to rapid rolling of bearings, the level of which is practically no different from the previous version of lubricants. At the same time, the service life of the mechanisms is much longer, and such products protect very well from dust and other abrasive particles.

At the same time, there are several such oils that differ in the environment of use. One of the most common representatives of this category is LITOL-24, which can be found in any auto store.

If the bearing gets very hot, then you can use special lubricants with graphite impurities, which allow you to operate the products at temperatures of about 300 degrees.

Before purchasing lubricants for a specific type of mechanism, consult with specialists to choose the best option. Lubrication technology can be seen in this video:

Hello, dear friends! Let me call you exactly that. Today we have to discuss a fairly relevant topic for almost any car and its owner. We'll talk about the front strut support bearing.

Alas, the quality of our roads leaves much to be desired. Sometimes, when I travel outside the city center or into the suburbs, I am amazed at how anyone can drive there without visiting a service station every week.

The condition of the roads largely determines the need to change the support bearing quite often. The part is not the most expensive, but you will have to tinker with it if it fails.

Getting to know the journal bearing

To begin with, I suggest the simplest thing - getting to know the device. The support bearing (OS) is necessary in order to create a movable connection between the machine body and the shock absorber. On VAZ 2110, 2114 cars, models such as Grant, Kalina, Priora, as well as on all kinds of foreign cars Mitsubishi, Volkswagen, Fiat or Toyota, for example, the location of the OP is approximately the same - the upper part of the pillar. Install the bearing between the support and the upper cup (or cup, anyone) of the shock absorber spring.

If we look at it purely from a design point of view, then we have a variation of rolling bearings. But OP differs from them in the large thickness of the outer ring. The rolling bodies are cylindrical rollers. They are placed perpendicularly and separated from each other. Due to this design, the unit can take on loads from different sides.

The task of the OP is to provide the shock absorbers with the ability to rotate freely in the supports. In any car, be it a Ford Focus or Mondeo, Chevrolet Lanos, Cruze, Lacetti, Aveo, Daewoo Nexia, Hyundai Accent or Skoda Octavia, the OP will always be slightly higher than the front spring. The shock absorber rod will pass through the central cavity of the element. Shock absorber bodies are always mounted to the body where the OP is located. As a result, two types of loads act on the support - axial and radial.

Before you replace and buy a new element to replace the old OP, you need to understand their types. This is where we will start. Do you agree? Then go ahead.

Types of OP

It’s difficult to say for sure which OP is better to buy. Much depends on the specific car. How to check if OP is good or not? First, ask how much the bearings cost. Good parts cannot be cheap. But it’s not worth chasing the most expensive models if you have a budget car. Try to choose the golden mean.

Besides the fact that you need to look at the manufacturer, the specific type of bearing will be an important consideration. There are several varieties of this device.

• OP having a built-in inner or outer ring. For installation, mounting holes on the housing are used, so there is no need for clamping flanges.
• OP, in which the inner ring is separated. Structurally, the outer ring is connected to the body. It is important to take such devices in cases where you need to achieve the most accurate rotation of the outer ring.
• OP having a detachable outer ring. This is the opposite version of the previous bearing. Accordingly, they are taken if necessary to obtain precise rotation of the internal element.
• Single split bearings. The outer ring on such OPs is divided into one precisely. With their help, high rigidity values ​​are achieved.

Sooner or later the fault will manifest itself. This mainly occurs due to dirt, sand and moisture getting into the unit. On average, the first signs of a malfunction appear after about 50-75 thousand kilometers. Replacement is recommended every 100 thousand kilometers.

What indicates a malfunction

It is not always necessary to undergo complex diagnostics and a visit to a service station to understand that the support bearing has come to an end.

In fact, there are two main indicators of a breakdown or, at least, an unsatisfactory condition of the device, which requires mandatory replacement in the near future.

Many cars experience a knocking noise. But this is not true for all cars, since knocking in the struts may be absent due to design features. Therefore, motorists more often pay attention to changes in steering behavior. It is more difficult to steer a car; you constantly need to steer if you are driving in a straight line. Moreover, when it leads in one direction or another, you can understand what kind of persistent problem it is.

Causes of failure

Everything about the signs is very clear. But you need to know why such a malfunction occurs, and try to prevent premature wear of the support bearing on the front struts in the future.

• Natural destructive processes. Each OP has its own resource, which is usually developed after 80-100 thousand kilometers. Sometimes, if operating conditions are difficult, wear occurs faster. Therefore, it is better to check the condition of the OP every 20 thousand km.
• Aggressive driving. If you like to race, corner sharply and literally rape your car, which I categorically do not approve of, then your OP will not last anywhere near 100 thousand km. Such piloting speeds up the wear process significantly.

.

• Questionable bearing quality. Many car owners try to save money by buying cheap parts. But they serve little purpose and can fail at the most inopportune moment. Therefore, dear car owners, do not skimp on such important things.
• Terms of Use. You can drive extremely carefully, but if you regularly drive on broken roads, off-road and other conditions that are not the most pleasant for the car, the OP will wear out faster.
• Lubrication. It may be of poor quality, and therefore does not adequately simplify the operation of the bearing. Plus, some lubricants are sensitive to low temperatures. When purchasing and applying lubricant, make sure that it is of high quality and can withstand the upcoming loads, as well as operating conditions.

Replacement procedure

If you look at the photo, then structurally all OPs look approximately the same. The layout of the front struts on different cars also has minor differences.




But this does not give reason to use, for example, a Zhiguli repair manual in the process of replacing a support bearing on a Renault Logan, Nissan Almera, Hyundai Accent or Mitsubishi Outlander car. I recommend arming yourself with the instruction manual that came with your machine. Even if you bought a used car, and the previous owner did not give you the manual, it will not be difficult to find it online or buy it in stores.

It is this manual for a specific car with a specific engine that is the best guide for self-repair and maintenance. So that you understand what is involved in the process of replacing a support bearing, I suggest that you familiarize yourself with the approximate process.




I tried to highlight the main points that each of you needs to know.

In a MacPherson strut suspension system, support bearings play a key role. They are the connecting link between the front suspension and the car body. The quality of driving, comfort and traffic safety directly depend on the condition of these elements. Sometimes there comes a time when it is necessary to determine possible malfunctions of these elements in the rack. We will talk about how to diagnose and, if necessary, replace them.

Support bearing mechanism design

In fact, the weight of the front of the car (including the engine) rests on this unit. When the front wheels turn, the bearing experiences lateral loads, which accelerates its wear.

Important! Operation of faulty supports can lead to damage to shock absorber struts and steering.

A typical arrangement of support bearings can be seen in the diagram:

Diagram of support elements

Even a minor malfunction or critical wear of a bearing immediately affects the operation of the suspension and steering.

Symptoms of malfunction: shock absorber knocks, creaks, etc.

• Since the bearing has a mechanical connection with the support cups of the struts, the slightest play immediately produces characteristic knocks in the body.
• Turning the steering wheel becomes difficult, this is especially noticeable on cars without power steering.
• When turning, you can hear a creaking sound in the area of ​​the support cups.

Checking serviceability: do-it-yourself diagnostics

A more detailed check can be done using the assistant:

Replacing the front strut support and bearing

The work is carried out in a garage. The presence of a pit or lift is not necessary.

What tools are needed to replace

How to withdraw and change

1. First, we completely dismantle the rack. First of all, you need to unscrew the upper shock absorber rod using two keys.

   A special key can also be used for dismantling

2. The lower part of the rack is removed in the traditional way or simply removed from the support bowl. To do this, the car is raised with a jack. Then the support is removed.
3. If the support bearing is faulty, it makes sense to inspect the entire shock absorber assembly.

   If damage to any of the elements is visible, it requires replacement

4. After dismantling the rack with support, it is necessary to thoroughly clean the seat from dirt and check the mechanism for corrosion damage. Then you need to clean the metal from corrosion (if any), treat it with a rust converter and paint it.
5. The old support, especially if damaged, cannot be repaired, so it is replaced with a new one.
6. Then the rack is assembled without removing the spring ties, and the updated unit is installed in place.
   

   Tip: Before dismantling, mark the position of all mounting nuts and the rod with a marker to maintain the castor angle.

   The ties are not removed until the end of the work

7. After securing the strut to the lower control arm, carefully lift the assembly using a jack. It is better to perform this operation with an assistant. One mechanic lifts the jack, and the second makes sure that the mounting studs on the support are aligned.
8. You can do the opposite - raise the car body, leaving the suspension with the wheel on the ground. Then install and secure the support. Then slowly lower the jack, while simultaneously centering the shock absorber rod in the support seat. This installation allows for a more natural placement of the assembly in the socket.
9. After the final shrinkage of the rod in the hole of the support, tighten the fastening nuts. When indicating tightening torque values ​​in the instructions, use a torque wrench.
10. Don’t forget to remove the strut spring tie after securing all the elements. Upon completion of the repair, before driving on public roads, it is necessary to conduct a test drive on an empty road: this way you need to check the functionality of the steering and the absence of extraneous noise in the suspension.

Replacing a bearing with a separate element

If the support itself is in order, and the fault concerns only the bearing, it can be replaced separately. To do this, remove the rack with the support (the process is described above) and deal with it separately.

Having disassembled the support (the design is different for everyone, but the principle is approximately the same), we inspect the bearing. As a rule, the balls are worn unevenly, there are burrs on the holder, and the seals are damaged.

It is possible that the problem can be solved with little blood

Although journal bearings can usually be disassembled and individual components can be accessed, there is no point in repairing them.

It is hardly profitable to tinker with the component parts of the support bearing, trying to repair them

Firstly, the bearing itself separately from the support is not that expensive.

Secondly, this is a critical unit, so replacing balls or seals using a makeshift method will not lead to anything good. Therefore - an unambiguous replacement.

It is safest to replace the entire bearing

Whether to change bearings in pairs or not - there is no consensus. Typically, paired replacements are made more due to reinsurance. Experienced service station workers determine this need based on the general condition of the car's suspension. It also happens that it is not practical to change the second bearing - why throw away a well-functioning part?

How to carry out work on an Opel Astra (video)

Repair of shock absorber strut support

If it turns out that the bearing is in order, and the cause of the knocking lies in the wear of the damper or other element that is not a critical component of the structure, the support can be repaired.

How to restore a bearing: reconstruction of the pillow on video

In this case, we see a working rubber cushion, which simply changed size during use. Shrinkage can be compensated for by installing a machine-made gasket.

It will not be possible to return the support to 100% performance, but you will ensure a mileage of several thousand kilometers, and without any visible problems in comfort and safety.

Despite the fact that the shock absorber strut support is a critical component, its functionality can be restored without contacting service. Depending on the severity of the damage, you choose between installing a new unit, replacing worn components, or repairing it. The decision depends on your qualifications and the cost of components.

Well, we have already talked about it, however, it is not eternal. If you believe the mechanics at the service station, it needs to be changed along with the racks - that’s right! But there is not always money for shock absorbers, and many people don’t even remember such a thing as a “support” and don’t know why it is needed. In general, replacement occurs without them! But after a short mileage problems may begin...

To begin with, I’ll say - guys, the “support” is just a bearing and it’s far from eternal. It is subject to very large loads, because it must keep the shock absorber flowing. Of course, this part is quite durable and lasts for many thousands of kilometers. But our roads and high mileage destroy it. Therefore, it is advisable to change them every time the shock absorber struts are replaced - this is normal practice.

Main reasons for failure

Before we talk about replacement, I propose to talk about the reasons why it fails. There are only two main directions here: mechanical impact and time factor.

• Mechanical impact – as you probably guessed, these are broken roads, bumps and holes. The stand hits the support bearing with force, thereby destroying it. By the way, I myself witnessed when it broke down at 45,000 kilometers.

• Time factor - there are other reasons here, the first is, of course, the wear and tear of the metal and plastic parts themselves from time and high mileage, that is, simply wear and tear. Secondly, water, dust, dirt - everything gets into the bearing and destroys it. For example, from water it begins to rust and collapse. The situation is further aggravated by the fact that it has practically no protective housings.

In general, there is no third option here, either you will break it, or rust will eat it, the result is the same - destruction.

How can you tell if a support bearing has failed?

It’s very simple, when any bearing fails, it will either vibrate, or creak – hum (crunch), or simply jam.

Therefore, if you notice that when you turn the steering wheel, you experience some strange sounds, such as crunching or squeaking, then the reason may be in the “support”. The steering wheel will also become much heavier.

Self-diagnosis:

• You will need an assistant, put him behind the wheel, turn off the engine.
• Open the hood and remove the plug from the top.
• We put our hand on the “support” and ask your friend to turn the steering wheel to the right and left, not necessarily much, perhaps small movements (the steering wheel half a turn). There should be no squeaks or crunches, nor should there be any beating.

• Without letting go of the bearing, ask a friend to come out and rock the car from side to side. If the stand starts to move (beat) in the “support”, then there is a high probability that it is out of order.

At service stations they usually check it by “swinging”, the runout cannot be confused with anything, some even click.

Is it possible to travel with a non-worker?

NO, guys - you can’t, it can just get jammed, and at speed you simply won’t turn the steering wheel! So much for the accident. IN my practice, it was broken (torn) - that is, the drain rod passed upward through it - it pierced the hood right through! You don’t think it’s realistic yet, it’s real, the weight of the car is heavy, and the structure is broken.

So much for the savings, a broken hood is very difficult to repair, most likely you will have to replace it. It’s better to change the bearings on time, and they don’t cost a lot of money! Originals from 600 to 2000 rubles, depending on the make and class of the car. SUVs may be a little more expensive.

How to remove and replace with your own hands, is it possible from above?

Now we come to the most interesting part - how to remove it? You know, here I immediately want to answer all those who are trying to replace him from above - GUYS, this is unrealistic! It is locked by the car body (if you want the front “glasses” of the pillars), it is against them that it rests and to remove it is impossible to replace it from above, only from below.

Well, let's go, I'll tell you in detail point by point:

• First we need to understand that we need to remove the front drain completely. To do this, we lift the car, the front part. We remove the wheel.
• We need to disconnect all the auxiliary fastenings from the strut, this could be the fastening to the caliper, the stabilizer link fastening, the ABS sensor and brake hoses fastening.

• We unscrew the three nuts from the top (under the hood) and pull out the shock absorber strut.

• Now we need to “pull” the spring, because it often rests against the bearing itself, that is, it is the upper thrust cup.

• Next we need to unscrew the nut from the strut (the one that secures the bearing and shock absorber rod). This is a problem because if you twist the nut, it will rotate along with the rod. For such work, you need a special wrench, or a head and bit are usually used T We turn the head with a gas wrench, and fix the bit with a holder.

• After this, the support bearing will be removed and can now be replaced. Next, we repeat the process in reverse order.

Probably, the instructions are a little unclear, so we’ll watch the video version.

The front support bearing of the car serves to provide a movable connection between the shock absorber and the car body itself. That is, it is located in the upper part of the strut, between the upper cup of the shock-absorbing spring and the support.

Structurally, the unit is a type of rolling bearing. However, its peculiarity is the large thickness of the outer ring. In this case, cylindrical rollers serve as rolling bodies. They are located perpendicular to each other, and are also separated from each other. This design of the device makes it possible to accept loads from any side.

Why do you need a support bearing?

Support bearing operation

The main task of the support bearing is allow the shock absorber to rotate freely in the support. Regardless of the type of support bearing design, it is always located just above the front spring, and the shock absorber rod passes through its central cavity. The shock absorber body is attached to the car body exactly in the place where the support bearing is mounted. It provides a movable connection between the shock absorber and the car body. Therefore, during operation, the bearing experiences not only radial, but also axial loads.

Types of support bearings

Depending on the design, today there are several types of support bearings. Among them:

Types of support bearings

• With integrated outer or inner ring. It is mounted using the mounting holes provided on the housing, that is, there is no need to use clamping flanges for this.
• With detachable inner ring. The design implies that the outer ring is connected to the housing. As a rule, such a support bearing is used in cases where the accuracy of rotation of the outer rings is important.
• With detachable outer ring. That is, the opposite of the previous one. In this case, the outer ring is separated and the inner ring is connected to the body. This type of bearing is used when precision rotation of the inner ring is required.
• Single-split. Here the design involves dividing the outer ring at one point. This solution provides increased rigidity. This type of bearing is used in cases where it is necessary to ensure rotation of the outer ring with sufficient accuracy.

Regardless of its design, dirt and sand still penetrate inside along with moisture and are the main destructive factors, along with strong impacts on the suspension.

The service life of the shock absorber support bearing is designed for no more than 100 thousand km.

Signs of support bearing failure

Signs of worn bearings are two main factors - the presence of a knock when turning the steering wheel in the area of ​​the front wheel arches (also in some cases felt on the steering wheel), as well as deterioration in vehicle controllability. However, in some cases the knock from the struts may not be felt. It depends on their design.

Worn support bearing

For example, on a VAZ-2110 car, the inner race of the support bearing acts as a bushing through which the shock absorber rod passes. When the bearing is worn enough, its housing allows play, which causes the shock absorber rod to deviate from the axis. Because of this, the alignment angles are violated. Malfunctions can be identified by rocking the machine. You will find detailed instructions on how to check the support bearing in the additional section.

The main sign of a malfunction is the need to constantly steer when driving on a straight road. Due to a violation of the camber angle, the wear of the shock absorber support increases by approximately 15...20%. Tire treads, connecting and steering rods, and their ends also wear out additionally.

If the tasks of the bearing include only rotation of the strut (that is, it does not interact with the shock absorber), then in this case no violation occurs, since the shock absorber rod is held by a bushing that is pressed into the rubber damper of the structure (for example, on the Lada Priora, “ Kalina”, Nissan X-Trail). However, this still affects the car's handling, although to a lesser extent. Such a bearing will begin to knock when it fails. Moreover, knocks will often be felt even on the steering wheel. In this case, it will not be possible to diagnose a bearing failure by simply rocking the machine..

OP work problems and their consequences

Support bearing operation

The support bearing of the shock absorber strut is subjected to harsh use. Especially when driving on uneven roads, turning at high speed, or the driver not complying with the speed limit. The situation is aggravated by the fact that the design of many bearings (but not all) does not provide protection against the ingress of dust, moisture and dirt. Accordingly, over time, an abrasive mass forms in them, which accelerates the wear of their mechanism. If the design of your bearings provides for protective caps, but they are not in place (they were lost), be sure to order new ones. This way you will extend the life of the bearing. Also do not forget to put grease in the bearing, we'll talk about this later.

Thus, the main reasons for the failure of support bearings are the following:

• Natural wear of the part. As stated above, support bearings must be replaced at least every 100 thousand kilometers of the vehicle (usually more often, given the state of domestic roads).
• Harsh driving style and failure to comply with speed limits. If the driver drives through potholes or turns at high speed, the load on the entire suspension of the car, and the support bearing in particular, increases significantly. And this leads to its excessive wear.
• Poor part quality. If you decide to save money and buy a low-quality fake, then there is a high probability that the bearing will not last as long as indicated on its packaging.
• Machine operating conditions. Depending on the conditions the machine is designed for and how it is used, support bearing failure may occur much earlier than predicted by the manufacturer.

When performing repair work on the shock absorber, shock absorber strut and other related parts, we recommend that you add grease to the support bearing. This will increase its service life and also reduce the load on all the elements listed above.

At its core, a journal bearing is a rolling bearing. In order to reduce the load on it during operation, as well as to extend its service life, various lubricants are used. To lubricate support bearings, plastic types are most often used. Lubricants are designed to improve the performance characteristics of bearings. In particular:

• increase bearing life and extend its service life;
• reduce the load on the suspension components (not only directly on the bearing, but also other elements - steering, axle, steering and connecting rods, ends, and so on);
• increase the car’s controllability (prevent it from decreasing during operation).

Each type of lubricant has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is necessary to choose one or another lubricant, taking into account the following factors:

• specific loads that act on the support bearing (vehicle weight, operating conditions);
• the likelihood of moisture entering/into the unit;
• normal and maximum operating temperatures for which the bearing is designed;
• material from which the mating working surfaces are made (metal-metal, metal-plastic, plastic-plastic, metal-rubber);
• nature of friction force.

In our country, the following popular lubricants for journal bearings are:

• . This simple, proven and cheap lubricant is ideal for use in a journal bearing as one of the many types of bearings for which the mentioned lubricant is intended.
• Various lubricants for CV joints. You will find detailed information about popular brands, their advantages and disadvantages in the additional section.
• Lithium greases with the addition of molybdenum disulfide. There are a lot of such compositions. One of the popular brands is Liqui Moly LM47. However, remember that these lubricants are afraid of moisture, so they can only be used in support bearings that have protective caps.
• Also, many car enthusiasts use one of the following lubricants - Chevron Multipurpose Grease “Black Pearl Grease EP 2”, Chevron Multipurpose Grease “Delo Heavy Duty EP 2”, Chevron Multipurpose Grease “Delo Grease EP NLGI 2”.

Owners of Ford Focus cars of all generations are strongly recommended to check the presence of grease in new and used support bearings. Therefore, if the slightest crunching noise appears, be sure to check the condition of the bearing and fill it with grease.

However, in any case, even with the use of lubricant, each bearing has its own limited resource. As a rule, replacing the support bearing is carried out together with replacing the shock absorber, if such a need arises.

Replacing the support bearing

Replacing OP

If a bearing fails completely or partially, no one is involved in repairing it, since there is simply nothing to repair. However, you can get rid of the knocking noise that so often bothers car owners. In particular, during operation the damper rubber “sags” and a backlash is formed. As a result, a knock occurs. You can consider how you can get rid of this problem using the example of the VAZ 2110 in the following.

The support bearing is installed on vehicles with MacPherson strut front suspension. Accordingly, the process of replacing it is identical in most cases, with the exception of minor differences in the implementation of some components of individual car models. There are two replacement methods - with complete dismantling of the rack unit or with partial removal of the upper part of the rack unit. As a rule, they use the first option, which we will describe in more detail.

If replacing the OP is possible without dismantling the rack, then the work is easy. You just need to remove the cup along with the old bearing and replace it with a new one. When the design and location of the support bearing does not allow this, then to perform the work you will need metalworking tools, as well as a jack, wrenches and spring ties.

Be sure to have spring ties because without them you will not be able to remove the old journal bearing.

The algorithm for replacing the support bearing when removing the strut and disassembling the shock absorber is as follows:

1. Loosen the support mounting nuts (usually there are three of them, located under the hood).
2. Jack up the car on the side where you plan to change the bearing and remove the wheel.
3. Unscrew the hub nut (usually it is pinned, so it is necessary to use an impact tool).
4. Undo the lower rack fastening and loosen the lower fastening nut a little.
5. Disconnect the brake caliper and then move it to the side; there is no need to disconnect the brake hose.
6. Using a crowbar or pry bar, remove the lower rack mounting from the seat.
7. Remove the strut from the vehicle body assembly.
8. Using the existing ties, tighten the springs, after which you need to disassemble the shock absorber strut.
9. After this, the immediate procedure for replacing the bearing is carried out.
10. Reassembling the system is carried out in the reverse order.

Replacement of OP without camber for VAZ 2108-21099, 2113-2115.

Replacing the OP with a VAZ 2110

Which support bearing to choose

Finally, a few words about which bearings are best to use. First of all, you need to understand that everything depends on the model of your car. Therefore, it is impossible to give clear recommendations. Accordingly, you need to build on the information provided by the manufacturer of your car.

As a rule, what is currently sold is not the support bearings themselves, but an assembled kit consisting of a support and the bearing itself.

Popular bearing manufacturers:

• SM is a Chinese brand founded in 2005. Belongs to the middle price segment. In addition to bearings, other spare parts for various machines are also produced.
• RYTSON is a similar brand to the previous one. The products are manufactured in China.
• SNR is a world-famous French company that produces various bearings.
• SKF is the world's largest manufacturer of bearings for cars and other equipment.
• FAG is a company located in Germany. The products are distinguished by their quality and reliability.
• NSK, NTN, Kouo are three similar manufacturers from Japan. Provide a wide variety and quality of manufactured bearings.

When choosing, you need to understand that it makes no sense to overpay for an expensive part. Especially if you own a budget car. However, it’s not worth saving either. It is best to choose bearings from the middle price category. You can find reviews and recommendations for choosing an OP at the end of the article about checking support bearings, the link to which we provided above.

Conclusion

The support bearing is a small but important part of the suspension. Its failure can lead to unpleasant consequences in the form of deterioration in vehicle controllability and increased load on other, more expensive components. Therefore, remember that it is easier and cheaper to replace this inexpensive part than to wait for more expensive car suspension components to fail. Do not neglect this and carry out timely diagnosis and replacement of the OP.