Wheel Bearings
The fifth generation VW polo, also known as the 6R, was introduced in 2009 and is based on the VAG PQ25 platform, which is shared with the Seat Ibiza, Skoda Fabia and Audi A1.
This platform uses a Generation 2.1 wheel bearing on the front axle, which is integral to the hub assembly and has to be installed correctly in order for the bearing to function properly.
It is important to note that bearings of this type cannot be reused as they have a locking ring, which breaks upon removal.
Installation of the new bearing must be carried out with the correct tool, which presses the bearing in on the outer race. Pressing the assembly in by the hub flange will exert excessive forces on the inner ring of the bearing, potentially causing the bearing to separate or create a brinelling effect on the bearing raceways.
Care must also be taken to ensure that the bearing is pressed fully home and the locking ring is correctly engaged in the knuckle. If this is not done, then the ASB® system may not function correctly, leading to malfunctions in the ABS, traction control and related systems.
To correctly tighten the hub, torque the nut to 50Nm and then tighten by a further 90 degrees.
The rear bearing is a typical Generation 2 type, which is easily replaced without the need for any specialist tools. The correct torque setting for the rear is 70Nm plus 90 degrees.
Suspension Bushes
Due to the poor condition of the UK road network and the popularity of aggressive traffic calming obstacles, the front lower wishbone rear bush on the Polo is prone to premature wear and often needs to be replaced.
First Line has therefore introduced a heavy duty version of this bush, designated HD, to run in tandem with the existing bush (FSK6368), and which should prolong the service life and also improve the location of the wishbone.
When fitting the replacement, care must be taken to ensure the plastic casing of the old bush has been removed and to prevent deformation or damage, First Line recommends the use of the correct tooling to install the new bush. The new bush also needs to be correctly located because the orientation is dependent to which side of the vehicle it is fitted.
As with all steering & suspension components, First Line also recommends that for safety reasons, these bushes are replaced in pairs (i.e. the equivalent bush on the opposing side of the vehicle).
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