Wheel Bearings & Ball Joints

[88S1]

So I’m going to replace my wheel bearings and all the ball joints on my S1 whilst it’s in bits, all seem in good condition but seems silly not the re-new as they are relatively cheap. Plenty of choice out there with massively varying prices.

So, starting on the ball joints (upper, lower, track rod ends etc), do I go with Quinton Hazel, First Line, TRW, Moog, Delphi or ABS, below is a photo of the various prices for the upper joint. QH and First line are about £14 each.

Any good/bad experiences?

Edited by 88S1 on Saturday 7th September 11:34

Edited by 88S1 on Saturday 7th September 11:34

[88S1]

Looks like Quinton Hazel is preferred option and had no fitting issues for ball joints reading the PH posts.

Upper ball joint. QH QSJ1004S
Lower ball Joint. QH QSJ 765S.
Track rod ends. QH QR1384S

[v8s4me]

If your OEM wheel bearings are OK refit them. Even with many 000's miles on them they are still likely to be better than new Chinese or Indian ones.

[88S1]

v8s4me said:

If your OEM wheel bearings are OK refit them. Even with many 000's miles on them they are still likely to be better than new Chinese or Indian ones.

Thanks for the response. She’s got a good few miles under her belt, I’ll give them a good degreasing and check them out. Might be able to get some new old stock originals.

[v8s4me]

These lasted fewer than 5000 miles...



Branded 'BTI'. I bought another set (both sides) from TVR parts. These are branded 'SKF' but made in India. Lets hope the quality control guy wasn't away the day mine were made.

The OEM bearings were still in great condition after 92,000 miles but I thought the same as you.

[88S1]

v8s4me said:

These lasted fewer than 5000 miles...



Branded 'BTI'. I bought another set (both sides) from TVR parts. These are branded 'SKF' but made in India. Lets hope the quality control guy wasn't away the day mine were made.

The OEM bearings were still in great condition after 92,000 miles but I thought the same as you.

5000 miles, that’s terrible. Are the originals Motorcarft ones.

[v8s4me]

The OEM ones were Timken. "Made in France" but excellent nevertheless