The first generation of automotive wheel hub bearings, with their simple structure, low cost, and convenient maintenance, are mainly suitable for the following working scenarios:
1. Economy passenger car market
Typical models: early economy sedans such as Toyota Corolla (1966-1980), Volkswagen Golf (1974-1983), Ford Escort (1968-1981), etc.
Application features:
Suitable for non drive wheels of front wheel drive vehicles (FF layout), axle load ≤ 1.2 tons, and lifespan target of 80000 to 100000 kilometers.
. The cost advantage is significant, with a single set of bearings priced 40% lower than the second-generation integrated solution. During maintenance, only the outer or inner ring needs to be replaced, without the need for a complete replacement. Satisfy the basic driving needs of vehicles, such as supporting body weight, resisting steering centrifugal force, etc.2. Light commercial vehicle field
Typical scenario:
Japanese light trucks (such as early Isuzu ELF models): rear wheel twin tire configuration, single bearing carrying 1.5 tons, bearing clearance needs to be checked every 30000 kilometers.
.European vans (such as the first generation of Renault Trafic): The front wheel drive wheel hub bearings need to withstand the combined load of steering and driving, and the failure rate is 30% higher than that of non drive wheels.
.Application advantages:
The split structure is easy to maintain, and worn parts can be replaced separately, reducing maintenance costs.
. Rated dynamic load of 30-80kN, matching the light load requirements of light commercial vehicles.3. Special Vehicle Modification Scenarios
Typical Case:
Early RV Modification: A self-propelled C-type RV based on a truck chassis, which achieved a single wheel bearing capacity of 3 tons by connecting dual first generation bearings (axial preload adjustment) in series.
.Agricultural machinery: The steering axle wheel hub bearings of the combine harvester need to cope with high dust environments, and the average service life is shortened to 50000 kilometers.
.Application value:
The structure has high flexibility and can meet special load requirements by adjusting pre tension or series combination.
. Low cost, suitable for modification scenarios that are cost sensitive but do not have extreme load requirements.4. Early industrial and mechanical applications
Historical background: In the 1960s and 1980s, the first generation of wheel hub bearings, as the mainstream technology solution, were widely used in early automobiles and industrial machinery.
.Technical foundation:
Split type double bearing combination (outer ring, inner ring, double row steel balls, cage), fixed to the hub flange and steering knuckle by bolts.
. The lubrication method is filled with lithium grease and requires regular maintenance (replenishing grease every 50000 kilometers); The sealing design consists of a double lip rubber sealing ring and a dust cover, with a protection level of IP66 (only dustproof and splash proof, unable to cope with water immersion conditions).5. Maintenance and replacement market
Market positioning:
As a low-cost alternative to second-generation and third-generation bearings, it is suitable for the maintenance of old vehicle models or budget limited scenarios.
. High maintenance convenience, component replacement can be completed without the need for specialized tools.Limitations:
The maximum speed is ≤ 3000r/min, and it matches a maximum speed of 180km/h, which cannot meet the requirements of high-performance vehicle models.
. The sealing performance is limited and not suitable for long-term water immersion or high corrosion environments.