Common Semi-Truck Wheel End Issues To Know About

Functional wheels result in successful hauling trips for your semi-truck. However, if you notice your wheel ends have started to lose their functionality, inspecting them and providing maintenance may be the next step. Here are common semi-truck wheel end issues to know about.

Wheel Noises

If you notice your wheel making noises as your drive, it could result in your wheel ends becoming damaged. The next step toward repair or replacement is essential for keeping your tires functional and optimal. So you must replace bearings if you notice any noises, nut-face wear, spindle wear, rust or moisture, tread wear, or worn-out and tarnished seals.

Wheel Wobbling

Even if your wheels have the perfect torque, tight U-bolts and bushings, wobbling, or unround wheels can result in improper rolling. Wobble wheels occur when the wedges have uneven seating, as one part of the wheel pulls closer to the hub.

You can easily detect wobbling wheel issues by jacking your car up and spinning the wheels. Place a dial indicator or runout gauge close to the wheel to mark gaps between it and the wheel. If the gap isn’t consistent around the tire, retighten the spoke nuts on the wheel to help the wedges sit properly before torquing it in place.

Wheel Bearing Misalignment

Another common semi-truck wheel end issue to identify is wheel bearing misalignment. A loose wheel bearing can result in poor alignment between the cup and cone. This allows the hub to move along the spindle, thus making the wheel run off center.

Components that cause wheel-and-tire assemblies to fall off center or go in other directions instead of vertical can impact a tire’s life. Practicing preventative maintenance at the wheel end and axle can drastically improve the life of your tires.

At Van Horn Truck Parts, we provide drivers with high-quality truck and trailer parts at competitive prices. Additionally, our selection of aftermarket replacement parts helps keep your vehicle moving, whether you need routine repairs or overhauls. Our wheel end parts are crucial for keeping your tires maintained and helping your truck move as smoothly as possible. You can easily find rim clamps, semi-truck axle parts, wheel hubs and seals, wheel studs, and more to keep your truck running. Ask us about our wheel end parts and semi-truck supplies today.