4 replies to this topic

[robminibcy]

Hi on the Saturday before himley I gave all the various bits and pieces on my mini a good grease. I knew there was play in both front wheels and this has been narrowed down to badly worn wheel bearings which will be being replaced soon as there is now way it will pass its mot in july as it is. the ball joints seemed good and had no obvious play although last years first mot they were advised although second time round after a grease they went through fine. I have new unipart ball joints so is it worth fitting them even though the current ones seem fine? the other thing and the main reason for this question is the top arms. when I greased them some grease leaked round the rubber at each end is this a sign of wear is this expected? It didn't take very much grease to start leaking so I presume they were already quite full although what came out was fairly black.

 

help will be much appreciated. Rob

[A-Cell]

Re top arm greasing, that seems fine, I only worry if the grease doesn't come out each end. Usually I do it until clean new grease comes put both ends and then wipe off the excess and re-seat the dust seals.

[A-Cell]

Re BJ's check them very carefully for play, then decide. Don't take any chances.

[tiger99]

Better to have a tiny bit of play than be too tight, which will eventually result in disaster. Personally, I would fit the Unipart bits, as they will be of known quality, if in the slightest doubt. Remember, no "nip" to 3 thou end float, and free to deflect to every possible angular extreme is the correct setting. Set them up almost dry, just with a drop of 3 in 1 oil, and once they are greased with LM the 2 or 3 thou will be imperceptible.

[robminibcy]

To test the play in the top arms would I just grab 'em and wiggle to see how much play there is? Looking at the condition of the rest of the front running gear I wouldn't be at all suprised if they need a little TLC! Is it the same with the bottom arms?