Schaeffler VLS’s improved FAG Repair Insert Unit
Schaeffler Vehicle Lifetime Solutions (VLS) has introduced an updated version of its FAG Repair Insert Unit (RIU) for commercial vehicles. The pre-assembled unit is designed to make OE quality wheel bearing replacements simpler in truck, trailer and bus hubs.
It’s said the new RIU can also extend maintenance intervals and has a patented sealing cap that reportedly helps to lower diesel consumption and CO2 emissions by reducing friction levels. The result: less time off the road means lower operating costs.
Schaeffler VLS claims the FAG Repair Insert Unit can be installed quickly, efficiently, and safely, as the complete wheel bearing unit is pre-assembled and sealed. Inside, two tapered roller bearings are connected by means of a snap ring, and are lubricated for life with the appropriate grease at the factory. This aims to eliminate the risk of using the wrong specification or contaminated lubricant in the hectic environment of a CV workshop.
The optimised preload is designed to ensure higher rigidity, reliability and service life, whilst also reducing operating noise. All achieved with a professional OE quality installation that claims to be both cost and time efficient.
New patented sealing cap
It’s reported that the new version of the FAG Repair Insert Unit is the first to feature a patented sealing cap made of polyamide plastic, which replaces the previous conventional two-lip seal. The new sealing cap is mounted contactless on the outbound bearing, significantly reducing friction, resulting in an energy saving of up to 38 watts per wheel hub, according to the company, and should therefore equate to lower fuel consumption for fleet operators, resulting in cheaper running costs and improved emissions levels.
Samuel Braun, CV Vice President at Schaeffler VLS, commented: “Wheel bearings are subject to natural wear and must be replaced at the first sign of a defect – which in the commercial vehicle sector has to be done very quickly, because every minute of downtime costs money.
“The new FAG Repair Insert Unit provides distributors and workshops with a solution that extends service intervals and operating times, as well as an efficient OE quality repair that contributes to a reduction in fuel consumption.”
The new FAG Repair Insert Unit is compatible with the previous version as well as the FAG Insert Unit and can easily replace both during maintenance. There are eight-part numbers initially available for various vehicle applications, including DAF, Ford, SAF, Schmitz Cargobull, VDL and Volvo.
