For truck maintenance, the use of wheel-centering products is a common practice. However, there are questions to be answered: Can these products cause damage to hub-piloted aluminum wheels, such as Alcoa wheels? The short answer to this question is “yes.” The long-winded answer depends on which wheel-centering product you’ve chosen to … [Read more...]
Ford Transit 150-350: Tire Wear Woes
The Ford Econoline (E-Series) Van had quite a run, dating all the way back to early roots in 1961. Now, with the retirement of this popular van series, 2015 brought a new global platform to the market; the very popular Ford Transit. Due to improvements in fuel mileage (reduced fuel consumption) and cargo square footage, this platform has become a … [Read more...]
COMPARATIVE TESTING RESULTS OF WHEEL CENTERING SLEEVES FOR COMMERCIAL TRUCK HUB-PILOTED WHEELS
The test was performed to replicate the clamping forces generated on hub-piloted commercial vehicle wheel/hub assemblies. The test compared forces generated when using OEM-style flange nuts, and various wheel centering devices. Testing was conducted by Braun Intertec, an independent testing facility, and paid for by Stempf Automotive Industries, … [Read more...]