Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper installation of the KOB Front Wheel Bearing Kit for Bombardier/Can-Am 500 TRAXTER ATVs manufactured between 1999 and 2001. This kit is designed to replace the bearings and seals for one front wheel. For repairing both front wheels, two kits are required.
Adherence to these instructions is crucial for ensuring optimal performance, safety, and longevity of your ATV's front wheel assembly.
Product Overview
The KOB Front Wheel Bearing Kit includes the following components:
- Bearing: One (1) high-quality aftermarket wheel bearing.
- Seals: Two (2) high-quality aftermarket seals.

Figure 1: Components of the KOB Front Wheel Bearing Kit. This image displays a single wheel bearing and two corresponding seals, which are included in one kit.
Compatibility
This bearing kit is compatible with the following ATV models:
- Bombardier/Can-Am 500 TRAXTER ATV (1999-2001)
Note: This kit is specifically for the front wheels. Please verify your ATV's model and year before proceeding with installation.
Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when working on your ATV. Failure to follow safety precautions can result in injury or damage to the vehicle.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and gloves.
- Ensure the ATV is on a stable, level surface and properly supported with jack stands before beginning any work.
- Disconnect the battery's negative terminal to prevent accidental electrical activation.
- Use the correct tools for each step.
- If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified mechanic.
Setup (Pre-Installation)
Tools Required:
- Jack and Jack Stands
- Wheel Lug Wrench
- Socket Set (various sizes, including for axle nut)
- Torque Wrench
- Pry Bar or Large Screwdriver
- Bearing Press Tool or Hammer and Bearing Driver Set
- Grease (high-temperature, waterproof)
- Brake Cleaner
- Shop Rags
Preparation:
- Park the ATV on a firm, level surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheel you intend to service, but do not remove them yet.
- Lift the front of the ATV using a jack and secure it with jack stands, ensuring the wheel is off the ground.
- Remove the lug nuts and the wheel.
Installation (Operating)
Follow these steps carefully for proper installation of the front wheel bearing kit:
- Remove Brake Caliper: Unbolt the brake caliper from its mounting bracket and carefully hang it out of the way using a wire or zip tie. Do not let it hang by the brake hose.
- Remove Hub Nut: Remove the cotter pin and castle nut (axle nut) securing the wheel hub to the spindle.
- Remove Wheel Hub: Carefully slide the wheel hub off the spindle. It may require some gentle persuasion with a rubber mallet.
- Remove Old Seals and Bearings:
- Using a pry bar or screwdriver, carefully pry out the old seals from both sides of the hub.
- Once the seals are removed, use a bearing driver or a suitable socket and hammer to tap out the old bearings from the hub. Ensure you tap evenly to avoid damaging the hub.
- Clean the inside of the hub thoroughly with brake cleaner and a rag, removing all old grease and debris.
- Install New Bearings:
- Apply a thin layer of grease to the outer race of the new bearing.
- Place one new bearing into the hub. Using a bearing press tool or a bearing driver set (matching the outer diameter of the bearing), press or tap the bearing squarely into the hub until it is fully seated. Ensure it is flush and not cocked.
- Repeat for the second bearing on the other side of the hub.
- Install New Seals:
- Apply a thin layer of grease to the lip of the new seals.
- Carefully place a new seal over each bearing, ensuring the correct orientation (usually the open side of the seal faces the bearing).
- Using a seal driver or a flat piece of wood and a hammer, gently tap the seals into place until they are flush with the hub.
- Reinstall Wheel Hub: Slide the newly assembled wheel hub back onto the spindle. Ensure it slides on smoothly without excessive force.
- Reinstall Hub Nut: Thread the castle nut back onto the spindle and tighten it to the manufacturer's specified torque (refer to your ATV's service manual for exact specifications). Insert a new cotter pin through the castle nut and spindle hole, bending the ends to secure it.
- Reinstall Brake Caliper: Mount the brake caliper back onto its bracket and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
- Reinstall Wheel: Place the wheel back onto the hub, install the lug nuts, and hand-tighten them.
- Lower ATV: Lower the ATV to the ground.
- Final Torque: Fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to the manufacturer's specified torque.
Maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance can extend the life of your wheel bearings.
- Post-Installation Check: After driving for a short period (e.g., 50-100 miles), re-check the lug nut torque.
- Periodic Inspection: Regularly inspect the wheel for any signs of looseness, excessive play, or unusual noise.
- Cleaning: Keep the wheel hub area clean from excessive dirt and debris, which can compromise seal integrity.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel wobble or excessive play | Improperly seated bearing, loose axle nut, worn components. | Re-check bearing installation, torque axle nut to specification. Inspect other suspension components. |
| Grinding or humming noise from wheel | Damaged or improperly installed bearing. | Inspect and replace bearing if damaged. Ensure proper installation. |
| Brake caliper misalignment (as noted in a customer review) | Seals or bearings not fully seated, incorrect part dimensions, or issues with other hub components. | Ensure both bearings and seals are fully and squarely seated within the hub. Verify the hub is fully seated on the spindle. If issues persist, compare dimensions of new parts with old ones or consult a professional. |
Specifications
- Product Name: KOB Front Wheel Bearing Kit
- Brand: KOB
- Model Number: 122442
- Compatibility: Bombardier/Can-Am 500 TRAXTER ATV (1999-2001)
- Kit Contents: 1 Bearing, 2 Seals (per kit, for one wheel)
Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding your KOB Front Wheel Bearing Kit, please refer to the product packaging or contact the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
For technical support or further assistance, please contact KOB customer service through their official channels.