Wheel-Checks from the company Wheel-Check are a loose wheel-nut indicator that can identify a loose wheel nut with a simple visual inspection. When the wheel nuts are properly torqued to specs, the Wheel-Checks are then placed on the wheel nuts in a uniformed pattern. Once a wheel-nut has loosened, the Wheel-Check will become out of sequence. It will be visible when the driver does his or her walk around. Wheel-Check’s can also quickly identify a hot wheel possibly caused by bearing failure or brake drag. Wheel-Checks are also heat sensitive. If there is a binding brake or seized bearing, the heat is transferred through the stud and nut. Once the temperature exceeds 120º C (248º F), Wheel-Check will start to blister around the circumference and eventually start to distort.
A wheel bearing failure can have grave consequences if it occurs while driving at highway speeds and the vehicle loses a wheel. This is why the wheel bearings should always be inspected. A driver will be required to go to maintenance and have a thorough assessment on the problem wheel. Additional benefits to using Wheel-Checks include providing a simple, visual means of confirming proper wheel torque in seconds; lowering maintenance costs by eliminating unnecessary re-torquing; costs only a few dollars per wheel; and facilitates official roadside inspections. Available in 17+ custom sizes and color upon request.