To properly adjust the rear wheel bearings on a classic Bentley, start by gathering essential tools like a torque wrench, sockets, and feeler gauges. Secure the vehicle on a stable surface, engaging the parking brake and using wheel chocks. Use a torque wrench to loosen lug nuts and lift the car to remove the wheel. Access the bearings by unscrewing the brake drum and inspect for wear. Correctly adjust the bearing tension by tightening the wheel bearing nut and then slightly loosening it to ensure smooth wheel movement. Reassemble components, tighten lug nuts to 80-100 ft-lbs, and perform a test drive to check for optimal function. Discover more techniques for precise adjustments by exploring further.
Gather Necessary Tools
Before adjusting the rear wheel bearings on a classic Bentley, gather the right tools. This job needs specific tools that fit the car's unique design.
Start with a torque wrench that matches the manufacturer's settings. This tool helps ensure the bearings are tightened just right.
You'll also need a set of sockets and a breaker bar to take off the wheel hub and get to the bearings. Use feeler gauges to measure bearing clearance accurately.
A bearing packer is useful for spreading grease evenly on the bearings. Finally, have a trolley jack and jack stands ready to keep the car steady while you work.
Secure the Vehicle
Make sure the Bentley is secure before you start working on the rear wheel bearings. Find a flat, stable spot like a garage floor or driveway. This helps keep the car from moving. Use the parking brake to stop any movement. Check the handbrake too, especially if the car is older and might not hold as well.
Put wheel chocks around the front wheels. These blocks stop the car from rolling back. Choose chocks that match the car's size and weight.
Lift the Bentley with a hydraulic jack and use jack stands for support. Place the stands under the car at the right spots, which you can find in the car's manual.
Make sure the stands can hold the car's weight, roughly 2,400 kg. This setup keeps the car stable while you work.
Remove the Wheel
To get to the rear wheel bearings on a classic Bentley, start by taking off the wheel carefully. First, make sure the car is lifted securely with a strong jack and stands that can handle the Bentley's weight. Use a torque wrench to loosen the lug nuts while the wheel is still on the ground so it doesn't spin. Turn the lug nuts to the left with steady pressure to avoid damage.
After the car is safely up, take off the lug nuts completely and gently remove the wheel from the hub. Be careful not to scratch the wheel or harm nearby parts, which can be expensive to fix. It helps to take photos or notes during this process for putting it back together correctly.
Using the right tools, like a breaker bar for tight lug nuts, makes things easier. Some people find it helpful to have someone else assist, especially with heavy wheels, to prevent accidents. This keeps both the car and the person safe during the work.
Access the Bearings
To reach the rear wheel bearings, you first need to take off the brake drum. This part sits over the bearings.
Start by unscrewing the bolts that hold the brake drum to the hub. Once the bolts are out, gently pull the drum away from the hub.
Now, you can see the wheel hub where the bearings are located. Check the hub for any damage or signs of wear that could impact how the bearings work. Look for grooves or pits on the hub's surface.
If the drum is stuck, use a hub puller tool, but be careful not to damage the hub threads.
With the hub visible, you can see the bearings. Clean the area with a suitable solvent to get rid of grease and dirt. This step helps in making sure any adjustments to the bearings are accurate.
Make sure all tools and materials match the classic Bentley's standards to keep the car in good shape.
Adjust Bearing Tension
To adjust the tension of the rear wheel bearings on a classic Bentley, follow these steps:
- Lift the Car: Use a lift to raise the car for safe access to the wheel hub.
- Tighten the Nut: Turn the wheel as you tighten the wheel bearing nut. This helps the bearings settle into place.
- Loosen the Nut: Slightly loosen the nut to ensure the wheel spins freely. Avoid any excess play.
- Check Wheel Movement: Spin the wheel to see if it turns smoothly. Listen for any strange sounds.
- Adjust Again if Needed: If the tension feels off, adjust the nut again. Aim for a balance where the wheel moves easily but isn't wobbly.
After these steps, make sure the wheel turns without any noise or resistance.
Proper tension helps the bearings last longer, keeping your Bentley in good shape.
Reassemble Components
First, make sure the hub assembly is clean. Remove any dirt or debris.
Place the hub onto the spindle. Be gentle as you slide it over the adjusted bearings. Fasten the hub with the axle nut. Check the service manual for the correct torque, usually between 150-200 ft-lbs for classic Bentleys.
Now, fit the brake caliper over the rotor. Tighten the caliper bolts to the right torque, which is often 70-80 ft-lbs.
Connect the brake lines again, looking out for kinks or leaks. Mount the wheel onto the hub. Tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern. Make sure they are between 80-100 ft-lbs for even pressure.
Test Drive and Inspect
Before you take the car for a drive, check that all the parts you put back together are tight and in the right place. Make sure everything is secure for safety and performance.
With the car on flat ground, turn the wheels by hand. Listen for strange sounds like grinding or clicking. These noises might mean there's a problem with the wheel bearings.
When you're ready, start driving in a safe area with not much traffic. Notice how the car handles, how it steers, and how well it brakes. If the rear wheel bearing is adjusted right, it shouldn't make noise or feel weird when you speed up, slow down, or turn.
Watch for vibrations or odd feelings, which might mean something needs fixing.
After the drive, check the bearings and nearby parts again. Look for any signs of overheating like changes in color or hot spots near the hub. Make sure everything is still in place and there are no leaks.
Write down anything unusual you noticed during the drive and fix anything needed to keep the car running well.
People Also Ask
What Are the Signs of Worn-Out Rear Wheel Bearings on a Classic Bentley?
If your classic Bentley has worn-out rear wheel bearings, you might hear strange noises like humming or grinding. The car may shake more, and the tires could wear out unevenly. It might not handle as well either. Fixing these issues quickly is important for safety.
How Often Should Rear Wheel Bearings Be Inspected on a Classic Bentley?
Check the rear wheel bearings on a classic Bentley every year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. This helps catch any problems early, keeps the car running smoothly, and makes sure it stays safe and in good condition.
Are There Specific Brands of Replacement Bearings Recommended for a Classic Bentley?
For a classic Bentley, it's best to pick strong and long-lasting bearings from well-known brands like SKF or Timken. Check your car's manual or ask a car expert to make sure they fit well and work great.
Can Improper Adjustment Affect the Vehicle's Performance Over Time?
Yes, if rear wheel bearings aren't adjusted right, it can cause problems. The tires might wear out unevenly, the car can shake more, and parts like the axle or suspension could get damaged. This makes the car less safe and might not last as long.
What Safety Precautions Should Be Taken When Working With Rear Wheel Bearings?
When working with rear wheel bearings, make sure the car is safely lifted with jack stands. Wear gloves and safety glasses. Be careful not to touch sharp or hot parts, and check that your tools are in good shape.