KEENAN
MechFiber350 and 370 Operator’s Manual
60
Revision D01 21
st
May 2019
11.13.2 Axle maintenance
Tightening and retightening wheel nuts
The following steps should be taken to tighten and retighten wheel nuts:
1. Impact wrenches should not be used, as the impact torque maybe excessive.
2. Wheel nuts should be tightened diagonally every time in conjunction with a torque
wrench.
3. In the case that power tools are the only tools available, they must be set to the
correct torque (check heading 8.6), as over-tightening may lead to damage or
breakage.
Ensure nuts are correctly tightened after:
1. First use.
2. The first laden journey.
3. The first 1000 km.
4. Every six months thereafter, or every 25,000 km (whichever happens first).
5. Every time a wheel is changed or removed (check how to safely remove a wheel
under heading 8.8).
11.13.3 Hubcap maintenance
Hubcaps that go missing or are damaged must be replaced immediately to keep dirt from
penetrating the hub, which can damage the bearings.
Check that hubcaps are always in place and in good condition.
If the hubcaps are a press fit, visually check to ensure that they are fully home.
If the hubcaps are attached using screws, fit a new gasket, if needed, once the hubcap is
removed.
Retighten the screws regularly every 6 months.
11.13.4 Bearing play
The bearing play should be checked after
1. The first 1,000 km.
2. Before intensive use, every 6 months or 25,000 km (whichever happens first).
Wheel bearings are subject to varying levels of wear based on the:
1. Operating conditions.
2. Load.
3. Speed.
4. Adjustment and lubrication.
To check the wheel bearings:
1. Lift the wheel off the ground and turn it slowly, checking for any rough points or
friction.
2. Turn it at a high speed to check for unusual noises, such as grating or knocking.
If there are signs of damage, or if the bearings are worn, the bearings and the seals should
all be replaced.
