Don’t put too much grease on the bearing

How much grease to apply to bearings is a question many truck drivers want answered, as too much or too little will not achieve optimal lubrication and cost-effectiveness. Today, we’ll discuss the relationship between bearing grease and ABS sensors. Too much grease not only impairs optimal lubrication and causes waste, but it can also cause an ABS sensor malfunction.

Don't put too much grease on the bearing (1)

The ABS sensor is a relatively delicate component.

Don't put too much grease on the bearing (2)

Over time, the ABS sensor’s surface becomes dirty.

Although the surface of the ABS sensor probe is almost entirely covered in metal, it is actually delicate in actual use. Due to its proximity to the bearing, it can become contaminated with bearing dust and grease over time. It may even rust, filling the space between it and the wheel hub gear ring with dirt and affecting magnetic induction detection.

Don't put too much grease on the bearing (3)

ABS sensor covered in grease.

Don't put too much grease on the bearing (4)

The dirty probe is unrecognizable.

In my years of repair experience, I have found that many ABS sensor failures are caused by excessive bearing grease. Too much grease can easily be squeezed onto the probe during wheel installation. At best, this affects the ABS sensor’s sensitivity; at worst, it prevents the sensor from sensing the gear ring, causing an ABS malfunction.

Don't put too much grease on the bearing (5)

This situation is slightly better.

Whether it’s an axle sensor bracket or a later manual welding installation, this situation is prevalent. Grease, dust, and metal shavings from brake pads all accumulate on the sensor surface.

Don't put too much grease on the bearing (6)

Cleaning with carburetor cleaner

Don't put too much grease on the bearing (7)

After cleaning, apply grease evenly to prevent rust from forming in the bushing bracket.

Preventing and treating this situation is very simple: apply grease to the bearing only as needed.

For cleaning, remove the sensor from the bracket, clean it thoroughly, and then apply a layer of grease evenly between the sensor and the bushing to prevent it from rusting into the bracket later.

Don't put too much grease on the bearing (8)

Cleaning complete

After cleaning, fully insert the ABS sensor into the bracket from the rear, making sure it’s fully seated. Combined with the correct wheel installation method, it will return to regular operation.

Don't put too much grease on the bearing (9)

The wheel rim “disappears,” covered in grease.

In addition to the ABS sensor probe, the wheel rim also needs regular cleaning. Both the probe and the rim need to be kept clean. Of course, when cleaning, we must first check if the sensor probe cable is intact. If the cable is broken, then no amount of cleaning will help, and the probe will have to be replaced.

Don't put too much grease on the bearing (10)

● Mechanical Introduction:

Cleaning the ABS sensor probe and wheel rim is very simple and not as troublesome as we imagine. As long as the ABS is working correctly, we only need to ensure it is clean when performing wheel chocks. This ensures that the ABS can constantly accurately monitor the wheel’s operating status.