Wheel bearing safety has taken a step forward with a new preventive warning device from SKF Automotive Division. The SKF Wheel End Monitor mounts on the outboard side of a vehicle’s wheel and monitors vibration changes, alerting the driver through a flashing red warning signal of impending bearing failure. The early warning can also help avoid collateral damage to adjacent wheel end components.
“The SKF Wheel End Monitor is the latest in a series of breakthrough technologies for the truck industry from SKF,” said Mike Lewis, director-- truck sales, North America. “With the SKF Wheel End Monitor, we are providing a product focused on increasing overall vehicle safety by detecting bearing defects before they become a serious issue. This, combined with reduced maintenance and costs, is something the industry has needed for many years.”
Drivers or technicians can check the bearing by holding a magnet included with the monitoring unit near the monitor. A red signal indicates a potential problem while a green indicator light lets the user know the bearing is defect free.
